A photograph from the event
The University of Ghana Basketball Court will host about 100 girls for a two-day basketball camp under the “Me Overcoming Me” initiative.
This programme, organized by the Greater Accra Regional Basketball Association (GABBA) in collaboration with Swain Basketball Academy, New York Square, Jordan Nwora Foundation, Shelissa Thomas, and FIBA Africa Zone 3, aims to enhance the mental wellness, skills, and talent development of young female basketball players.
The camp targets girls aged 5 to 15, focusing on empowering them on and off the court, and about 100 Girls are set to benefit from skills and mental wellness training
At the press briefing, Coach Robert Swain, founder of Swain Basketball Academy, emphasized the significance of nurturing young female athletes:
“Our player development program prioritizes grooming young girls to play basketball. We aim to instill life skills, inspire them to believe in their dreams, and achieve them through training, focus, and encouragement from mentors like us.”
A representative from New York Square Dan Isaacs reflected on the organization’s past success in Ghana, stating; “following our achievements in Tamale earlier this year, we decided to organize another camp for girls. This initiative empowers basketball players and coaches, helping them acquire standard basketball skills and pursue long-term careers in the sport.”
Dr. Shelissa Thomas, a partner of the camp and a mental health advocate, shared her perspective on the program’s goals;
“We are thrilled to be in Ghana and contribute to the ‘Me Overcoming Me’ initiative. This camp addresses the mental wellness of players, helping them navigate challenges both on and off the court.”
Dr. Thomas highlighted the importance of addressing mental health issues in sports:
“Many young players struggle with injuries and don’t know how to cope, which affects their mental health. We are here to provide support, guidance, and tools for recovery and resilience.”
The launch and media engagement event featured notable dignitaries, including Dr. Austin Luguterah, Head of the University of Ghana Sports Directorate; Ayitey Bulley, Chairman of the Greater Accra Basketball Association; Coach Robert Swain; Dr. Shelissa Thomas and her family; Dan Isaacs of New York Square; as well as local and international coaches.
The “Me Overcoming Me” Girls Empowerment Camp represents a significant step toward fostering holistic development in young athletes, combining basketball skills with essential life lessons.
AM/KA
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