“CHILDREN OF THE WORLD” BASKETBALL CAMP

Basketball Fiji will be sending three participants to participate in the Children of the World Basketball Camp which will be organised in Istanbul on the 24^th – 31^st August 2010 under the umbrella of the FIBA World Basketball Championship in Turkey.

Vishnu Deo Primary School class six student Mr. Johnny Dyer and Veiuto Primary School student Paulini Elder have been selected to be ambassadors of Basketball Fiji at the weeklong World Children’s Basketball Camp. The pair will be accompanied by young aspiring National U20 Men’s Head Coach and President of the Raiwaqa Basketball Players Association Mr. Saula Koroi.

The President of Basketball Fiji Mr. Ioane Naivalurua said that the weeklong multi-national and multi-cultural camp for both boys and girls will have 400 teenagers from around the world and 200 coaches who will have the unique opportunity to improve their skills, practice many “teamwork and team play” activity games, experience the beauty of Istanbul, enjoy Turkish Cuisine, have fun and watch World Championship games.

Mr. Naivalurua thanked the organisers FIBA and the Turkey Basketball Federation for organising the inaugural event which will allow the three young basketball ambassadors the golden opportunity to further develop their basketball skills and knowledge. Basketball Fiji supports the new initiative of our International counter parts as it is in line with our slogan “It’s More Than Just Basketball.” Mr. Naivalurua also acknowledged the parents of the participants for this fine achievement and for supporting their child, as the camp is an investment not only in their basketball development but also in their personal growth.

Mr. Naivalurua said that the three participants were identified from Basketball Fiji organised 2009/2010 Primary Schools Development clinics and competition, association organised children’s clinics and the holiday children camps.

The participant was farewelled last Saturday by the staff of Basketball Fiji, family members and members of the National Women’s team with an afternoon tea at Ed’s court in Raiwaqa, and was presented with travelling outfits courtesy of Fijime, Fiji Prison’s and Correctional Department and Basketball Fiji.