Drug Aware Ignite Basketball Program a winner!

The City of Armadale’s Drug Aware Ignite Basketball program is going from strength to strength with 325 young people registered this year, showing the need for this type of intervention program within the community.

Drug Aware Ignite Basketball is a full time, sport based intervention program targeted at young people involved, or at risk of becoming involved, in crime and anti-social behaviour.

Mayor Henry Zelones said Ignite uses basketball to engage young people through physical activity, leadership development, education/training and community involvement.

“Ignite Basketball has provided young people an outlet to not only play basketball but also learn basic life skills which most of us take for granted – this initiative has changed the lives of many young people in our local community already.

“Blake Ward Massey is the latest success story of the program and one of the many positive examples of youth in Armadale.

“It is always encouraging to hear the many positive stories of young men like Blake who should be recognised for their efforts, leadership and engagement with other young people.

“When Blake joined the Ignite Basketball program he had never played an organised basketball game before.

“Blake was one of four Ignite Basketball participants who were scouted and invited to try out at a USA college scholarship camp earlier this year, which recognised his skills development and consistent effort.

“In a game usually dominated by giants, it is important to note that Blake stands just 132cm tall. He was diagnosed with the developmental condition Hypochondroplasia at birth and his short stature has never been an issue, he has learnt to tackle all challenges head on.

“Blake has consistently been a positive role model for other impressionable young men and is exactly the type of young person Ignite Basketball strives to support and develop.

“He has taken part in the education forums and has qualified as an accredited coach and referee, emerging as a leader and role model for other young people who attend the Ignite Program,” said Mayor Zelones.

The success of the program would not have been possible without the support of our funding partners; Department of Sport and Recreation, WA Police Strategic Crime Prevention Division, Healthway, the Department of Child Protection and Family Support, Public Transport Authority and the Local Drug Action Group.

For more information on Drug Aware Ignite Basketball call 9399 0111 or visit www.armadale.wa.gov.au.