A new program has started in Blaxland for kids who can't wait to get on the basketball court.
Springwood Scorchers are running the Tiny Hoops program for two to five year olds on Saturday mornings, teaching basic basketball skills, as a precursor to the standard development programs which begin at age five.
"It's to give kids the skills and development to go into programs when they are older," said coach Jaimee Marsh.
Kids learn dribbling, passing and shooting skills, spacial awareness of body placement, and fundamental movement patterns like skipping and jumping.
They learn to shoot with a size 3 basketball, which is about half the size of a men's basketball.
"It's safer for them so they don't hit themselves on the head. They only weigh about 500g," Miss Marsh said.
The ring is just 1.5m tall, and moveable.
"It's been great. The kids pick up things really fast," Miss Marsh said.
She discovered there was a need for the program after observing kids on the sidelines mimicking their siblings playing basketball.
"I didn't want them bored on the sideline and waiting for years to play," Miss Marsh said.
Currently studying for a medical science degree and with a background in basketball and gymnastics coaching, Miss Marsh drew on kindergarten basketball skills sessions in the US and extensive discussions with other basketball coaches.
And her young charges have given the program the thumbs up.
"I like shooting hoops," said four-year-old Annabelle Roberts.
Atticus Richardson, 4, said he really likes dribbling, and Elizabeth Ware, 5, said she likes running.
Kids can join the Tiny Hoops program at any time. For more information visit the Springwood Scorchers and Tiny Hoops Facebook page.
