Hoops of Fun on Offer

A young basketballer is on a mission to pass on her love for the sport.

Emily Attard is organising the Specialist Hoops holiday program for children with disabilities at Melton Recreation Reserve this month.

Training sessions with Melton Thoroughbreds, BigV and youth league players Ivan Harris, Billy Feben, Anthony Bowyer and Blake Allison will be a highlight of the event.

Emily, 16, said she came up with the idea to organise a one-day “all-abilities” camp when she met a youngster called Jack.

“I was refereeing an under-8s game one Saturday morning, when I noticed one of the young boys Jack wearing earmuffs and refusing to take the court,” Emily said.

“I was determined to get him on the court for the duration of the game. I accomplished my mission to get Jack to play and from then on I knew I had to get a program up and running.”

Emily said basketball was her passion and she hoped to expand the one-day program.

“I joined the reffing community at Melton Basketball to give back to the community as I’ve had so much enjoyment from playing this game,” she said.

“I expect the day to be a rewarding but challenging experience for all, I hope the children gain basic fundamental skills and more importantly fun and laughter through the game of basketball.”

The event will be held on September 25 between 9am and 12.30pm.