Basketball participation increases
The latest participation figures for basketball, released by Sport England today, have revealed a 16% increase in the number of people playing once-a-week over the past twelve months (172,300) with an increase of 9.5% in those playing monthly (301,000).
Keith Mair, England Basketball’s Chief Executive, expressed his delight following the announcement: “Our own data led us to believe that we would see an increase in participation of approximately 8%; these results have certainly exceeded our expectations. Initial participant numbers from our IM Basketball and Ball Again programs have been very promising and offer real potential for sustained growth. It is also pleasing to report that this significant increase in informal participation has translated to a proportionate increase in our affiliated membership.”
Sam Spare, National Development Manager, added: “IM Basketball and Ball Again were launched following a intensive period of research and development; both are designed to meet the ever-changing needs of a broad range of participants. The programs represent a key focus of our aim to develop the sport as a whole; we are grateful for the support of Sport England as well as the efforts of all those delivering IM Basketball and Ball Again so successfully across the country.”
Todd Cauthorn, Participation Programme Manager (IM Basketball and Ball Again) commented: “We are continually reviewing and improving both programs; there are some exciting developments planned over the coming months which we believe will assist us in extending the reach of both programs even further.”
For further details about Sport England’s Active People Survey, please visit:http://www.sportengland.org/research/active_people_survey/active_people_survey_7.aspx.
Change in once a week participation in funded sports against previous year
(April 2012 – April 2013 compared with April 2011 – April 2012)
Source – Sport England’s Active People Survey
IM Basketball is the simple way to create regular opportunities to play basketball, indoors or outdoors, incorporating both traditional and modified versions of the game. The programme is targeted primarily at those in education, aged 14-25. To get involved, please visit www.imbasketball.co.uk.
Suitable for those over the age of fifteen, and likely no longer in education, Ball Again is the participant-centred package of coaching and games specifically designed with the ‘lapsed’ basketball player in mind. The offer provides a relaxed reintroduction to the sport catering for players who have played some basketball, a little or a lot, in the past and is also perfect for those trying the sport for the first time. To find out more, please visit www.ballagain.co.uk.
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