On October 6 students from West Contra Costa and Oakland School Districts came together to practice basketball fundamentals at the Playworks East Bay Girls Basketball Jamboree. Stations focused on developing the defensive stance, free throw form, dribbling technique, and so much more!
These Jamborees served as a kickoff event for our Girls Basketball League. Throughout the East Bay Playworks Coaches have organized girls basketball teams at partner schools. These teams will participate in weekly practices and game nights while honoring our league values – Respect the Game, Play Hard, and Have Fun. Games are open to families and friends who want to show support and encouragement for participating students.
The Jamboree included Coach Max and ‘Junior Coach’ Matthew spending time on the playground once again. The two met when Max became the Playworks Coach at Matthew’s elementary school years ago. Their relationship began with Max empowering Matthew to step into the leadership role of Junior Coach and evolved into a strong bond lasting over a decade. Read more about their story.
We are excited for the development of the participating girls in both basketball skills and teamwork. For many, this is the first opportunity to play basketball and learn the fundamentals of the sport. And for all it is a great opportunity to deepen empathy and be part of a team that promotes healthy competition and good sporting behavior without keeping score.
As our East Bay Girls Basketball Jamborees were held during #NationalBullyingPreventionMonth, it was a great opportunity to highlight our impact reducing bullying on the playground and our partnership with Google to teach kids the importance of practicing kindness and inclusion. #RealPlayersDontBully
