Last Sunday, the National Mini Basketball Celebration took place at All Saints Sports Centre Sheffield. This great event was hosted by local side Sheffield Hatters, with the support of Basketball England, to ensure all 180 players from across 17 regional teams experienced a great day of basketball.
Loraine Gayle, Tournament Organiser for Sheffield Hatters commented: “This basketball showcase event, which for many is the first experience of a national tournament, holds value for everyone taking part, whether a young official, volunteer, coach or player.”
The day saw children aged 10 and 11 compete against each other for a national title in both male and female categories with key emphasis around Friendship, Fun, Fair Play and Respect which are Mini Basketball’s core values.
Players were chosen to represent their regions either through under 11 tournaments or selection programmes which involved local clubs and schools. Mini Basketball modify the standard rules of basketball so that games are played with 6 minute quarters and all players have to play two quarters 4v4; these changes to the official rules are to ensure the participants get the most out of the Mini Basketball experience.
Last weekend’s event continued Mini-Basketball’s long and successful tradition in England. Over many years, National Invitation Rallies and Festivals have been held to introduce children to the great game of basketball and groups of children can even join friends in Europe at Mini-Basketball Jamborees.
The following regions were able to send players to Sunday’s tournament:
Under 11 Boys Regional Represented Teams:
Under 11 Girls Regional Represented Teams:
After an action-packed day of fun games, the North West claimed the title for both the boys’ and girls’ competitions. The event was structured to make sure all teams had their fair share of games and with 32 matches in total over four mini courts, it made for some fantastic basketball.
Martin Spencer of Mini Basketball England added: “The Tournament was a huge success. It was exciting to see so many children from all regions coming together to enjoy the fun of the game, officiated by a dedicated team and supported by volunteers from the Hatters National League Club. Thank you to all involved in making it such a great day of Basketball”
