More than 50 care experienced young people from across Scotland gathered in Inverness this week for a basketball festival using sport to build confidence, friendships and new opportunities.
The Hoops Without Borders event, held at Inverness Royal Academy, brought together looked after and accommodated young people from the Highlands, Aberdeenshire, Dundee and the Scottish Borders for a day focused on teamwork, inclusion and wellbeing.
Organised by High Life Highland in partnership with The Highland Council’s Social Work Service, the festival was supported through the Scottish Government’s Summer of Sport initiative.
While basketball was at the heart of the day, the wider aim was to create an environment where young people could meet others with shared experiences, develop new skills and strengthen their confidence.
Participants took part in coaching sessions, team games, friendly competitions and leadership activities, with many trying basketball for the very first time.
The event also reflected the diversity of the young people taking part, with participants representing 14 different countries and using sport to break down barriers and build lasting friendships.
Elizabeth McDonald, Leadership Programme Development Officer with High Life Highland, said:
“We are so incredibly grateful to Michael Sharkey from Inverness Lions Basketball Club for planning and delivering all the sessions at our ‘Hoops Without Borders’ event.
“It was an incredibly busy day.
“We had young people taking part in basketball skills sessions, fun games and challenges, team activities, friendly competitions and youth leadership opportunities, helping to break down cultural barriers, strengthen connections and create positive experiences through physical activity.
“The atmosphere was amazing.”
Highland Council Chair of the Health, Social Care and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor David Fraser, said:
“By bringing together young people from different backgrounds alongside local organisations, support workers, volunteers and community partners, ‘Hoops Without Borders’ will help to strengthen community connections and foster a greater sense of belonging for these young people.”
Andrea Mackenzie, Area Sports Development Manager with High Life Highland, said:
“Participation in physical activity supports both physical and mental wellbeing, while teamwork and friendly competition helps young people develop communication, leadership, problem solving and social skills.
“Hoops Without Borders demonstrates how sport can break down barriers, encourage inclusion and create lasting friendships.
“There are so many positive outcomes, including increased confidence and self esteem among participants, greater social inclusion, stronger community connections and a greater understanding of different cultures and backgrounds.”
High Life Highland Young Leaders also helped deliver the event alongside staff and volunteers, with Basketball Scotland providing the basketballs used throughout the day.
Organisers hope the success of the pilot will lead to future Hoops Without Borders events, creating more opportunities for care experienced young people to take part in sport, develop leadership skills and build friendships that extend well beyond the basketball court.
