The club used the money, secured through the Grassroots Sports Grant, to install two FIBA-standard gameday baskets for use by its three senior teams and three junior teams, as well as six height-adjustable side baskets to support the development of young players in the area, enabling the club to offer sustainable opportunities for both recreational and competitive basketball to participants aged seven upwards.
Following significant growth in its first year, East Cleveland hopes the investment will support its expansion to running seven teams spanning multiple age categories, as well as engaging with local primary schools and academy trusts to establish inter-school competitions, which the upgraded venue will now be able to accommodate.
"Having a facility tailored to our needs provides a strong foundation for the club’s continued growth and long-term success - something that would not have been possible without this funding. We are sincerely grateful to Stephen and the entire team behind the Grassroot Sports Grant for their support and collaboration, which has enabled us to continue delivering meaningful impact within our community.
"This summer, we will host our first performance-level basketball camp, welcoming GB-level coaches and highly regarded professionals to deliver elite training opportunities to our players. These facility upgrades will help attract not only new players, but also coaches and sponsors who recognize the long-term potential of our programme.
"In addition, we provide educational workshops on nutrition, health, and wellbeing. As a registered HAF (Holiday Activities and Food) provider with the Department for Education and Redcar & Cleveland Council, we have also delivered over 3,500 fully funded basketball sessions, each including a healthy meal.
"Our goal is to support the development of young people through an active lifestyle and improved nutritional awareness, fostering healthier, more engaged communities."
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