Basketball
The Targeted Sports Participation Growth Program developed by Basketball Australia focuses on the development and implementation of a national program linking schools and associations through Aussie Hoops.
Aussie Hoops features steps that allow children aged 6 to 11 to progress through the sport. The first step, Fun Time, is an in-school program run for 4–6 weeks. After this, children can progress to Play Time, which is run outside of the school; Game Time, which builds on the skills learnt and has children participating in games that emphasise safety and fun; and Big Time, which is the beginning of the usual club competition pathway.
The program has multiple entry levels (that is, children can start at any stage) and can be adapted to the unique sporting environment of any regional area. At each level, the participants are provided with a variety of activities and benefits to enhance their enjoyment in basketball.
Aussie Hoops has four main objectives:
- to increase participation rates
- to provide an effective link between school and club sport
- to develop a best practice participation model for local associations (eliminate exclusive practices, maximise fun and customer servicing)
- to introduce value-added and user-pays philosophies into the delivery of participation programs.
Basketball Australia is rolling out the program across all states and territories.
More information about Aussie Hoops is at http://www.basketball.net.au/FS_extra.asp?id=656&OrgID=1
