Learning basic basketball, having fun

Members of the Steve Nash Youth Basketball team—along with a large crowd of vocal spectators—hosted Barton Flames Friday at Weymouth Consolidated School.

It was the first match between the two teams and both squads worked hard to score. There were several lead changes and neither team dominated the play.

Players were given equal time on the floor regardless of playing ability.

The Weymouth squad was up 24-21 with four minutes to play but the Flames scored twice to take the lead.

With less than a minute to play, Weymouth scored and added a point from a foul shot. Each team scored another basket and Weymouth held on for a 28-27 win.

Barton assistant coach Mike Cooper was pleased with the game and how well each team played.

“Both teams played well and the outcome of the game came right down to the last few seconds,” said Cooper. “The crowd was very enthusiastic and that was good for the kids.”

He said Barton students are taught that basketball is a team sport, and he and coach Julie Ford are fostering cooperation between the two teams at their school along with basic skills instruction.

Students in grades 3 to 6 at WCS have been learning basic basketball skills through the Steve Nash Youth Basketball program and the game against the Flames provided the opportunity to practice these skills and have fun in the process.

The SNYB is a national youth basketball program set up to develop fundamental skills, sportsmanship and a love of the game of basketball. The program is also dedicated to recreational play and life skills.

Weymouth’s next game will be May 7 when it hosts Digby Neck Consolidated School at 6 p.m.