Junior Jammers score a swish

Local basketball legend Sam Dempster's off-season is almost as busy as when he's in the midst of captaining the NBS Nelson Giants.

Between refining his skills on the court and lifting weights in the gym, he still finds the time to coach the Junior Jammers programme, hosted by the Inclusive Sport Trust in terms one and four.

For the last six years, he has run the hour-long session for school-aged children younger than 12 with supported learning needs or for those who lack confidence when playing sport.

"When I was young, I remember Phil Jones and the likes coaching me. It's always special to give back," he says.

"To see kids smiling and see kids get to love the game as much as I do. . . it's awesome man."

Sam's coaching presence is undeniable, with 18 students enrolled and their siblings joining in.

It's clear by how they all react to his instructions that the Junior Jammers members respect and admire Sam.

He says he'll never get tired of helping the next generation find their confidence through the game of basketball.

"And hopefully, one of these young ones can take my spot so I can finally retire," he laughs.

Inclusive Sports Trust sports co-ordinator Julie Price says the students really look up to Sam.

"It's really cool, the basketball skills and self-confidence that they gain.

"This is about developing that joy of taking part in sport."

The programme also gives young kids a pathway into the Fulton Hogan basketball league, an inclusive league for participants of all ages.

Julie says the programme is nearly at capacity, having grown from strength to strength in its previous 12 years.

The Inclusive Sports Trust has also started Active8 Kids after identifying a need in the community.

The eight-week programme sees students learn the fundamental sports skills, like throwing, catching and hitting, that will give them the confidence to go out and give different sports a go.

"A lot of these kids do lack confidence. . . inclusive sport is about giving kids a go regardless of their ability."