BASKETBALL at the grassroots level is thriving on the peninsula and the Mornington District Basketball Association, now into the second year in a new home in the grounds of Mornington Secondary College, is experiencing a growth spurt in the Aussie Hoops basic skills and Hoop Skills programs.
Program co-ordinator Deb Kruger says the programs teach children aged five onwards basic basketball skills such as dribbling and shooting.
"This term we have a record number of 99 participants and the association believes the success of the programs is largely due to the commitment and dedication of our team of coaches," she said.
"Our junior coaches - Tahnee Irons (now in her fourth year coaching Aussie Hoops), Shannon Wheeler, Gemma Donovan, Brittany Archdeacon, Alice Johnson, Nick Bird and Josh Watt - are all seasoned Breakers representative players and give up their time each week to teach children the basics.
"They have a strong work ethic and are great role models for the youngsters. To see the bond that develops between the coaches and the young kids they coach is really touching."
Senior coaches Chris Jannese and Andrew Watt oversee on-court proceedings and are undertaking their level 2 coaching accreditation while coaching at representative level for Mornington Breakers.
The program also provides an opportunity for personal development, with year 9 Woodleigh student Nick Bird using Aussie Hoops to complete the 'Community Involvement' component of the Duke of Edinburgh award he is undertaking. For details, call the association's office on 59750067 or visit www.mornington.basketball.net.au< p>
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