Basketball in Chilliwack is soaring to new heights, with a spike in youth registrations so far this year.
The Chilliwack Basketball Association is reporting that in just the first five months of this year, they saw "explosive growth" with more than 400 youth registrations. In a press release recently, they said that jump in new players "reflects the city’s deepening love for the game."
They are now offering after-school programs, spring clubs, adaptive offerings and even Jr. WNBA sessions.
Next up will be their "action-packed" summer camps, which they say are a good time for new players explore the game.
“We’re so proud of the momentum,” they wrote in the release. “Chilliwack kids are getting the chance to grow not just as athletes, but as teammates, leaders, and confident individuals. Basketball is just the beginning.”
This year's highlights for the organization include speed and agility training with CFL star Bo Lokombo, skill sessions led by Coach Pam Danis and Coach Eric Rogers, adaptive basketball programs — the first and only in Chilliwack, Jr. WNBA Mini Hoopers for Grades 2–4, club teams for boys in Frades 4 through 9, and a successful spring break camp and inaugural pro-d day camp.
"The association’s commitment to inclusivity and excellence is matched by the quality of its coaching roster, including former University coaches in Eric Rogers and Pam Danis who are shaping the next generation of Chilliwack athletes," the release states.
There are several four-day basketball camps this summer, held at Chilliwack Secondary Schoo. These camps offer focused skill development in a supportive and energetic environment.
A youth camp runs July 7-10, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., for Grades 1-3 and 5-7. Cost is $160.
A youth and elite camp runs July 28-31. Grades 1-6 runs from 9 a.m. to noon and is $160. Grades 7-12 runs from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and is $175. These camps feature pro guest coaches including Marek Klassen, with high-level drills and competitive play.
The youth and girls camps runs Aug. 11-14. Grades 1-6 Youth runs from 9 a.m. to noon and is $160. Grades 6-9 Girls runs from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and is $175. Led by Canada Basketball Hall of Famer Coach Pamela Danis, this session emphasizes confidence and leadership for female athletes
All participants will receive camp t-shirts, prizes, and valuable court time with coaches. For more information or to register, visit www.chilliwackbasketball.ca or email chilliwackbasketball@gmail.com.
