Children dribbling with some new-found basketball skills

by Randall Johnston | 14th July 2010

An Oamaru basketball develop
ment camp has proven popular
during these school holidays, with
close to 50 children participating at
the Waitaki Recreation Centre.

Programme co-ordinator John
Wai said he and assistant Tom
Shields have seen the budding
young basketballers progress
exceptionally well in the time they
have had coaching them.

"We had 34 children between
the age of seven and 14 on Monday
and Tuesday last week.

"This week we have been
coaching the 12 to 16-year-olds. We
have definitely noticed that there
is a lot of talent in Oamaru and it's
not just  boys.

"Good coaching is really import
ant, especially for younger
players,'' Mr Wai said.

He has had a lot of experience
with coaching and development,
mostly helping young players to
reach their potential in Dunedin.

Now based in Oamaru, Mr Wai
has been encouraged by the
abundance of talent and
willingness among basketball

players here to learn the skills
necessary to reach a higher level.

"Just today we had some that
weren't able to do a lay-up when
they first arrived.

The ex-Otago Boys' player is
currently planning a junior
development programme during
term three.

"It will be $40 and will run for
seven weeks with one one-to-one-
and-a-half-hour session a week,''
Mr Wai explained.

Those interested in finding out
more about  the programme can
email Mr Wai at
johnwai86@hotmail.com or phone
him on 021 100 5874.