Our Skookumchuck mill proudly sponsored Kimberley’s Junior NBA program again. Now in its third year, the Junior NBA program is a co-ed, skills-based program that teaches fundamental basketball skills, teamwork, and respect. To maintain affordability, the participation fee is set at $100 per child. Remaining cost are covered by tournament fundraisers and company sponsorships like this one. At the beginning of the season, each kid is given a jersey, a ball and a backpack.
“This program provides a valuable opportunity for kids to stay active, learn basketball skills, and most importantly have fun,” said Adam de Jong, Instrumentation Supervisor at the Skookumchuck mill and one of five board members who run the Junior NBA program. “Two years ago, I saw the chance to help build a program that wasn’t available in our town and I wanted to provide a great experience to kids in a sport that has been a big part of my life.”
The program serves as an introduction to basketball and creating an environment for kids to play and learn together. It’s run by a dozen volunteer coaches from the community. Before the season begins, they will undergo training to ensure effective program delivery. Adam is excited to use sponsor support to train and equip the volunteer group with the tools to make this a sustainable program that accessible to any child in the community.
The Junior NBA program caters for youth 6-12 years old. It starts in October and runs twice a week for 6 weeks, totaling 12 sessions. Participants are split into three groups based on age and there was a total of 60-70 kids who joined in the past two years.
Paper Excellence is a proud part of the East Kootenay community and pleased to support youth growing up in the region.
