HVO HELPS PRE-SCHOOLERS BE BASKETBALL STARS

Singleton Heights Pre-school children have completed a Stars Basketball program with support from Hunter Valley Operations (HVO).

The children received the tailored, skills development program over five weeks at the Singleton Heights Sports Centre during Term 2 of 2023.

The pre-school’s Director, Neisha Dean said the program has made a difference in the children’s skills and fitness.

“The kids have improved their motor skills including balance, endurance, coordination and as well as learning how our bodies move,” Neisha said.

“It is not only the physical benefits of the sport that are evident. The children also developed their communication and social skills. Most importantly the children had fun.”

“We’d like to thank HVO for their generous donation of $2,200 to support the payment of this amazing program.”

The program ran for three days a week, over the five weeks. The 45-minute basketball lesson included eight skill development stations. Each activity or game was designed to help students develop or learn new skills, while supporting growth in their confidence. The skills being developed included:

• balance

• catching

• throwing

• co-ordinated movement

• bouncing a ball

• hand-eye coordination

• teamwork

• locomotor skills such as galloping, skipping, side-stepping, jumping

• sharing and turn-taking

• self-regulation

• target practice

• following directions

• strength

• endurance

• celebrating the achievements of others.

HVO Environment and Community Manager Andrew Speechly said supporting the physical activity and skills development of local children is a great thing for the kids, their families and the community.

“Our kids are the future of our community,” Andrew said.

“Capacity building is one of the pillars of our community grants and support program,” he said.

HVO is also an ongoing supporter of the Jerrys Plains Ready for School program