Some 40 youngsters this summer are furthering their skills in basketball thanks to the KMS Summer on the Move programme, sponsored by Kellogg’s. Participants will be learning that to achieve the main objective of the game a number of physical attributes need constant training. These include: quickness, lateral mobility, agility and balance, jumping ability, coordination, and physical strength.

Basketball has over the years evolved from a classic to a more modernized sport. For instance, things changed from perimeter two-point shooting to long distance 3-point shooting, from simple lay-ups to well manoeuvred alley hoops and artistic dunking.

The basketball curriculum, under the guidance of KMS coaches Charlene Zammit, Rebecca Bonello and Rodianne Bugeja, used for Active Youngsters Basketball, in the Summer on the Move Programme, reflects these modern changes and serves as an excellent platform for upcoming professional basketball players.

Over the past years, a number of students attending the Active Youngsters Basketball who displayed a particular aptitude for basketball, were encouraged to practice more regularly and to join a basketball club in the national Under 15 and Under 17 leagues.

Charlene Zammit further explained that while individual skill is encouraged, teamwork, inclusion and sportsmanship are emphasised as core components in the basketball game.

“A talented basketball player that plays alone is next to useless in this team based sport. The elements of teamwork and trust are necessary to reach the game’s objectives. This kind of conditioning helps the youngsters realise that together they can achieve much more.” said, Ms. Zammit.

KMS ‘Summer on the Move’ is organised by the Kunsill Malti għall-iSport and is sponsored by Kellogg’s, the world’s leading producer of breakfast cereal, for the first time year as part of its commitment to promote the benefits of a balanced diet, coupled with an active and healthy lifestyle.

The KMS ‘Active Youngsters’ programme is specifically designed to encourage youngsters between 9-16 years to become more active, enjoy the sport and a healthier lifestyle. Sessions are held every Friday evening at the KMS Cottonera Sports Complex from 6pm to 7.30pm.

For further information about basketball or any other sport discipline practised at the KMS Active Youngsters Programme one may contact Ms Tanya Zahra, KMS Programmes at the Kunsill Malti għall-iSport Head Office either on tel. 21660658/9, via e-mail:[email protected] or visit the KMS website: www.sportsmalta.org.mt.