What is Aussie Hoops?

Aussie Hoops is a national basketball program for primary school aged children, with the program developed as an initiative of Basketball Australia and the Australian Sports Commission.  The Aussie Hoops program is designed for participants to develop their basketball and general motor skills through playing fun games (“game sense” - learn by doing), rather than performing drill and skill based activities which would be more suited in an advanced lesson or training session (e.g. an association’s elite development program).

Who can participate in Aussie Hoops?

Aussie Hoops caters for all boys and girls; able or disabled; naturally gifted or the sporting battler.  The program is player-centred, fun-focused and affordable, providing opportunities for children to learn, to play with their friends and to develop important social skills in a convenient, safe and friendly environment.

Who runs the Aussie Hoops program?

Aussie Hoops programs are conducted by local basketball associations at basketball stadiums and primary schools throughout metropolitan and country regions by Basketball NSW approved Aussie Hoops Presenters.

What are the aims of the Aussie Hoops program?

• Be safe
• Gradually build confidence
• Emphasise involvement
• Develop healthy lifestyles
• Develop a relationship between elite and grass roots basketball
• Create a positive outlook on physical activity
• Be enjoyable for players, teachers, parents and coaches

How is Aussie Hoops structured?

There are four different stages of the Aussie Hoops program. As the program is flexible to cater for participants and program deliverers, sometimes these stages are revised by associations to reflect their development pathways.

Stage One is ‘Fun Time’ which is school-based activity designed to introduce children to having fun with basketball.

Stage Two is ‘Play Time’ which is association or club-based activities aimed at developing children’s enjoyment of basketball.

Stage Three is ‘Game Time’ featuring a modified game which allows players to experience the fun of playing basketball.

Stage Four is ‘Big Time’ as players get the chance to play in a modified competition and experience the thrill of competition.  Children can start at any time (i.e. Fun Time is not a prerequisite for Play Time, and Play Time is not a prerequisite for Game Time etc.)

How can we join the Aussie Hoops Program?

If your child or school would like to join the Aussie Hoops program please contact your Local Basketball Association.  If you can’t find your local association or you are unsure where the nearest Association is, please contact the Basketball NSW Coaching Department for assistance.