ECHUCA - Following the International Basketball Foundation’s (IBF) incentive to give a new momentum to Mini Basketball, a Mini Basketball Event is taking place on 22 and 23 September in Echuca Australia.

FIBA Oceania, in collaboration with Basketball Victoria, is organizing the two-day event which will feature a Jamboree and a Convention. Basketball Australia will also be using the opportunity to have a meeting to discuss Aussie Hoops activities.

The Jamboree will see more than 240 boys and girls from across Victoria take part in 5x5 and 3x3 games as well as basketball clinics.

Over 60 participants from 11 different National Federations will take part in the Convention where  international delegates as well as national experts will share best practices regarding Mini Basketball. The participants will follow an on court coaches clinic on Saturday and attend the Convention on Sunday. The aim is for the attendees to go back to their respective regions and share what they have learnt to grow the grassroots Mini Basketball movement.

The IBF wishes to  teach local coaches and officials how to train and retain young players while creating a fun environment for kids. 

FIBA Oceania Executive Director David Crocker is looking forward to the event "the Mini Basketball Conference is an exercise in sharing our collective knowledge in how to provide a positive experience for young basketball players when they first try our game and  how we can then keep their interest in basketball. We would love to see them join our sport for many years ahead as they will contribute to a healthier, more united and happier community".