In an inspiring move to promote basketball participation and accessibility, Soul Sports, Basketball NSW’s Official Partner of Dream Hoops 1000, has pledged a generous $5,000 donation to support the Dream Hoops 1000 grants initiative.
This contribution will provide 50 grants to young people across NSW who would like to play basketball for the first time but haven’t been able to experience the joys of the sport due to financial constraints.
The Dream Hoops 1000 grants program, established by the Basketball NSW Foundation, aims to remove economic barriers that often prevent young people from trying basketball for the first time.
The grant provides the successful applicant with a $100 voucher that can be used towards Ford Aussie Hoops registration fees, association domestic competitions registration fees, game fees, or uniform costs. However, applicants must meet all the following criteria: they must not have been registered members of Basketball NSW, they must be 18 years of age or under, and they must reside in one of the nominated postcodes (Check Postcode Here).
Basketball NSW CEO Maria Nordstorm said how important the Dream Hoops 1000 grants program is to the community and thanked Soul Sports for their generosity in supporting young people to join basketball.
“We are incredibly grateful to Steve Sardi and the team at Soul Sports for their generous contribution to the Dream Hoops 1000 grants program,” said Nordstrom.
“Their commitment to making basketball accessible to all aligns perfectly with our mission of creating opportunities for youth to engage in the sport. These grants will undoubtedly make a significant difference in the lives of many aspiring basketball players across the state.”
Soul Sports’ donation has an impact beyond financial support; it represents a collective effort to ensure that basketball remains a sport of opportunity and inclusivity. As the Dream Hoops 1000 grants continue to empower young people across New South Wales, Soul Sports’ commitment is a hope for aspiring athletes facing financial barriers.
Soul Sports, Founder and CEO Steve Sardi included that he was proud to continue to work with Dream Hoops 1000 and is a firm believer in supporting basketball and its community, which has supported his business.
“By partnering with Basketball NSW’s Dream Hoops 1000, we are excited to contribute to the growth of basketball among young individuals who may not have had the opportunity otherwise,” expressed Sardi.
In 2023, close to 160 grants were allocated to new participants who stepped onto the courts for the first time. This funding is crucial for associations to continue to grow their membership and registrations for years to come. This, in turn, translates to building upon the popularity of basketball within the state, with the sport growing by 11% or 95,036 registered participants.
Yamba Basketball Association President Steve Smith expressed gratitude to Dream Hoops 1000 for assisting his association in attracting new players without the financial burden that junior sports put on families.
“The Dream Hoops 1000 Program has enabled children to play basketball for the first time, which they otherwise would not be able to due to the costs,” said Smith.
“The Dream Hoops 1000 program has allowed these families to be a part of a team, a club, and a community in which they otherwise would not have been able to. It has allowed young community members to see and experience role models, leadership, and teamwork, which these individuals can take with them and help be future role models and leaders in their daily lives, school, and eventually, their communities in a positive way.”
BNSW will continue to drive donations to Dream Hoops 1000 in 2024. If you wish to make a donation, head to our Donation Page HERE.
To learn more about the Dream Hoops 1000 grants program and how to apply, CLICK HERE.
About Soul Sports:
Utilising the latest technologies Soul Sports provides practical, user-friendly solutions for all of its clients and sporting partners. The company’s head office is located in Penrith, New South Wales. Since 1992, Soul Sports has invested heavily in the continued development of its operations, which is reflected in the quality of the products and services delivered to the marketplace.
Learn more about what Soul Sports offers and for more information about the company, CLICK HERE
Soul Sports is also proudly the BNSW Officials Apparel and Staff Apparel Partner.