Hoops proving a big hit with youngsters

figures for children between 5-13 years who have taken part in their ‘‘have-a-go’’ programme, Kiwi Hoops, reveal a sport on the rise among the younger brigade, as well as the high school bracket.

Kiwi Hoops was launched in 2015 when 7200 New Zealand primary school children took take part over the inaugural year.

By 2019 a total of 23,042 young Kiwis were participating in the programme, which represented a 20 per cent increase from the previous year and a whopping 220 per cent rise over the five years of its existence.

The Kiwi Hoops programme, delivered by regional basketball associations to primary schools, had made particular inroads in Wellington, Hawke’s Bay, Southland and Auckland, with Basketball NZ looking to grow that reach.

‘‘For the past five years Basketball NZ has provided funding to associations to support delivery in 12 regions around the country. We have developed programme guides, session plans and provided equipment,’’ community basketball general manager Brad Edwards said.

‘‘There is still significant scope for growth as many other associations have yet to include Kiwi Hoops as a core programme. As we train more coaches and hopefully retain and access more funding, we can see Kiwi Hoops in more areas.

The Covid-19 nationwide restrictions have brought Kiwi Hoops to a halt, but Edwards says Basketball NZ is preparing for the sporting resumption.

‘‘It’s an uncertain time and we know many associations are facing difficulties. But we are hoping to continue the good work. It’s all about getting outside and playing the game – that’s where the love for sport starts.’’