Published on Tuesday, 13 August 2024 at 11:47:18 AM
Late Night Basketball returned to Activewest Stadium on Friday night with a new look and a record number of participants.
Following a successful grant application to WA Police (WAPOL) the popular eight-week program will now include life skills workshops on making healthy choices as well as the purchase of new equipment and team jerseys and continuing to provide transport home for the players.
City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Jerry Clune expressed his gratitude to WAPOL.
“Late Night Basketball provides a safe and structured environment that focuses on diverting young people away from detrimental behaviours by offering positive alternatives,” he said.
“This funding will enable us to extend the program and offer a more comprehensive diversionary program.
“I would like to thank WAPOL for their generous funding along with the Geraldton Sporting Aboriginal Corporation (GSAC), MEEDAC, PCYC, headspace and the Geraldton Buccaneers especially Coach Carter Cook without whose support Late Night Basketball would not be possible.”
WAPOL Acting Inspector Russell Hurst is thrilled to see the new look program get started.
“On behalf of the WA Police Force, the MWG District is proud to support the Late Night Basketball initiative being run in Geraldton and Mullewa,” he said.
“The opportunity for Police to assist with programs and ground level engagement strategies is pertinent in our abilities to forge relationships and develop a strong sense of community.
“Officers from the Geraldton Police Station will be assisting with the program throughout the term and we hope to see as many participants as possible involved in the program.”
Late Night Basketball is a free program that engages with young people aged 12-17years and is played on Friday nights at Activewest Stadium during terms two and three.
A total of $50,000 has been awarded by WAPOL, a portion of which will go to support the Bimba Basketball program in Mullewa during term four of this year and term one of 2025.
Groups, organisations and individuals who would like to support Late Night Basketball or Bimba Basketball are invited to contact Jesse Steele via email at jesses@cgg.wa.gov.au or call 9956 6600.
ENDS
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