Basketball NSW is elated to announce that basketball has been selected as the top choice for schools participating in the Sporting Schools Program in NSW, marking a significant milestone in the journey of the sport’s grassroots development.
This fantastic achievement comes after basketball was selected as the overall number one sport in Australia the previous year in 2022.
Nationally, the allure of basketball is definitely on the rise securing its position as the #3 sport of choice in 2023. Yet, it is within the borders of NSW where the heartbeat of the sporting community resonates most profoundly, with the state contributing a remarkable 35% to national programs which is the most out of any state. Such an unparalleled level of participation is a testament to the high quality of the programs being delivered.
Sporting Schools is an Australian Government initiative designed to help schools increase children’s participation in sport and connect them with community sport opportunities.
Basketball NSW, CEO, Maria Nordstrom attributes the success of the Sporting Schools Program to the collaborative efforts between associations, schools and BNSW in providing a fun and engaging environment for children to experience basketball for the first time.
“We are immensely proud to see basketball emerge as the top sport choice within the Sporting Schools program for 2023. This program has been a growth pillar for us for the last seven years and we are happy to continue to see the popularity of our sport increasing YOY”, said Nordstrom.
“This accomplishment underscores the dedication of countless individuals who have introduced the joy of basketball to children who may not have otherwise considered playing the game. A heartfelt thank you to all our coaches and teacher-delivered personnel.”
“The Sporting Schools program is incredibly important for all kids to have the opportunity to try different sports and keep active. We are proud that this program also delivers 3×3 and the traditional 5×5 aspects of the game. We hope that this trend will continue with more and more schools applying for basketball.”
Central to the success of Sporting Schools are the Ford Aussie Hoops Centres, where children are under the guidance of dedicated coaches. These centers serve as nurturing grounds for talent to blossom and passion to flourish, with 42,016 participants in 2023 alone experiencing basketball firsthand within Sporting Schools. Moreover, the 58 teacher delivered programs serve as a beacon of inclusivity, empowering educators to upskill and broaden the reach of basketball within school communities.
Sporting Schools programs are provided free of charge to children and their families, aiming to build confidence and capability for lifelong physical activity. The partnership between the Australian Sports Commission and over 35 national sporting organisations underscores the program’s comprehensive approach to promoting active lifestyles among primary and secondary school students.
As basketball continues to flourish within the Sporting Schools Program, Basketball NSW remains committed to fostering a culture of participation, excellence, and inclusivity, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to experience the transformative power of the game.
Term 2 applications are now open.
For more information on the Sporting Schools Program, visit Sporting Schools Website.
