Twilight Basketball - The Jump Off
The new Twilight Basketball scheme for youngsters in Inverness got off to a flying start on Friday 23rd January, at Inverness College.
The launch, which was attended by Scottish Rocks team member Scott Russell and the Rockettes cheerleader team. The event was well attended and hailed a huge success. The event will continue to take place every week at the college between 1800 and 2000 and is open to all youngsters aged between 11 and 21.
Twilight Basketball is a multi-agency initiative backed by Northern Constabulary and co-ordinated by Scottish Sports Futures, with support from Basketball Scotland, Merkinch Partnership, Cashback for Communities and of course Scotland’s very own pro basketball team the Scottish Rocks.
Northern Constabulary’s Youth Development Officer, PC Rosanna MacSween, said: “The turnout was fantastic and everyone had a great time! I am sure this fixture will continue to be a big success. The youngsters will get coaching and it is hoped that teams will even have their own strips. In the future organisers hope to establish a local tournament and a Scotland wide tournament for those who take part."
She added: "Any youngster between 11 and 21 is welcome to come along and give it a try on a Friday night.
"The scheme is aimed at all youngsters between the ages of 11 and 21 and it is hoped that we can also attract those on the fringes of criminal behaviour. By doing this we can address issues of anti-social behaviour in some areas of the city."
The sessions, which run over a 40 week period, at Inverness College, Longman Campus, between 1800 and 2000. It is hoped it will teach youngsters about the importance of team building and provide a safe environment for them to express themselves through sport.