Young people from Wellington are taking to the court through a community-run basketball program backed by Squadron Energy’s Uungula Wind Farm.
The PCYC Wellington Club is behind the local initiative, running regular training sessions and drop-in basketball games for those looking to stay active, develop their skills and build new social connections.
The program has attracted an average of 10 to 12 participants at each session and has engaged more than 20 young people since it began.
PCYC Wellington Club Manager Aidan Carr said Squadron Energy’s support had expanded the club’s resources and provided local youth with a positive outlet.
“Through the support of Squadron Energy, we have been able to provide training sessions as well as drop-in games, providing a safe space for young people to be involved and participate in the sport they enjoy,” Mr Carr said.
Squadron Energy First Nations Engagement Facilitator Justin Toomey-White said the basketball program was a great community initiative to get behind.
“Sport has a unique ability to bring people together, and this basketball program provides Wellington’s young people with opportunities to stay active, build confidence, make new friends and develop skills in a supportive environment,” Mr Toomey-White said.
“It’s fantastic to see young people getting involved, and we’re pleased our support is helping Wellington PCYC create an inclusive and engaging space where participants can connect through sport and celebrate their community.”
PCYC Nations of Origin Tournament
The program helped prepare PCYC Wellington’s basketball team for the PCYC Nations of Origin Tournament.
The Nations of Origin Tournament unites First Nations and non-First Nations young people to celebrate culture through sports, with strong endorsement and support from Elders.
The team played in Sydney for the tournament last week.
Team captain Riley Smith said the program had provided an enjoyable way for local young people to connect.
“The Wednesday afternoon basketball program is a great opportunity for after school to connect with people you might not otherwise,” he said.
“It has brought me friends from the shared love of basketball and has aided me in maintaining my physical fitness and overall health.”
Earlier in the month, the team played against PCYC Parkes in Wellington as part of the opening day of the competition, going down by 10 points.
PCYC Wellington also organised lunch, arts and crafts, gymnastics and cultural activities for participants as part of the school holiday program.