32 students from the Liverpool Opportunity Hub attended the program’s inaugural 4x4 basketball competition yesterday, hosted at the Michael Wenden Centre in Miller.
The initiative was developed by the Opportunity Hub team to maintain engagement with program participants during school holidays, promote healthy and active lifestyles and to link young people with local sporting and recreational facilities.
Each basketball team was randomly assigned and included four players, with a mix of boys and girls and older and younger students. With 11 different schools from the Liverpool LGA represented, the event proved to be a great opportunity for students to make new connections and friendships.
The basketball competition was run in a ‘knock out’ format, with intensive 5-minute games played throughout the day. The final was won by ‘Team Giannis’ (named in Honour of Milwaukee Bucks Power Forward Giannis Antetokounmpo), with the team consisting of students from Ashcroft Public School, Ashcroft High School, Busby West Public School and Lurnea High School.
The winning team received tickets to the Rabbitohs vs. Storm Round 19 NRL game, with the runners up receiving a Souths Cares football and third place receiving a Rabbitohs scarf as prizes.
Levi Maseuli is a student at Ashcroft Public School, was a member of the winning team and explained he enjoyed the holiday activity.
“It was a mad day playing basketball and training at the gym with friends. Today would definitely be the highlight of my school holidays”, Levi said.
Following the conclusion of the tournament, students, parents and staff enjoyed a BBQ lunch together and spoke about education goals for Term 3.
The event also included a VIP Tour of the Michael Wenden Centre, which consists of a 50 metre swimming pool, gym facilities, indoor courts and multi-purpose rooms.
Students then completed a group fitness session and had the opportunity to learn about gym equipment and fitness principles. With many of the Opportunity Hub students interested in careers in the fitness industry, these aspects of the event were hugely popular.
Emily Pagett attends Ashcroft High School and enjoyed the opportunity to learn about the fitness industry and facilities within the Centre.
“It was great meeting new friends in the Liverpool area today. I am interested in a career in the fitness industry after I finish school so it was a good introduction to what it’s like working as a personal trainer”, Emily said.
Souths Cares Liverpool Opportunity Hub is proudly supported by Training Services NSW.
