As the winter season approaches, many students, ages eight to ten, get ready to begin the basketball season. With the aid of coaches from Wilton High School, girls learn the fundamentals of basketball in a comfortable and friendly environment.
The high schoolers have a great bond with the kids, as they have grown up through the same program. The elementary students feel a strong connection with their coach and find even more enjoyment in the sport. Player 6, a fifth grader on the pink team, states, “They have had experience in their own lives, and it’s easier and better connecting with them because they are closer to our age.”
The high schoolers who help out create a comfortable and welcoming environment for the youth basketball kids, “It helps me create friends and is a great opportunity that benefits my experience,” Player 6 added.
Through this program, the high schoolers dedicate one day during the week to aiding the students, teaching them, and playing with them at practice. In addition, every weekend the kids engage in a game, where they can experience competition in a fun way, as they play against friends and meet other coaches like their own.
The high school coaches can give back in a way that positively impacts future generations’ sports experience, motivating and encouraging them to continue playing basketball and finding joy in a team.
The elementary school kids are not the only ones who enjoy and experience the value of this system. Lindsay Seaman, a Wilton High School junior who coaches, stated, “My favorite part about coaching the younger girls is watching their growth over the season. It is exciting to see their accomplishments throughout the season, but it is also beneficial for high school coaches to learn responsibilities, good communication, and management skills.”
With the coaches, the children experience a positive, reaffirming, and understanding environment while the high schoolers learn valuable lessons and create bonds with the younger generations.
The Junior Warrior Basketball Program creates an amazing space where both the players and the coaches have the opportunity to learn and grow.
Every Saturday at 8:30-9:30 AM and 10:30-11:30 AM the youth teams play against each other where the teaching of the coaches really shines. To support, you can watch and cheer at the events held at Cider Mill School. Those interested must hurry as the season is almost over!
Until next year when the teams will resume their practice, more high schoolers can offer their teachings by signing up to volunteer by emailing [email protected].
