MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- The 2010 Youth Basketball season commenced with a total of 32 teams ready for action and three cheer squads ready to cheer them on at the opening ceremony at the IronWorks Gym here March 6.
The basketball season’s purpose is not to win or lose but rather to go out and have a good time and teach the concepts and fundamentals of basketball to the younger children.
The basketball season is open to station residents as well as Japanese nationals between the ages of 3-12.
For the 10- to 12-year-old age division, it is more than just fun and games. It’s about the friendly competition as well.
The ages of the young athletes may be relatively close, but often times the skill levels and experience differs quite a bit.
In the youth sports league here, the age divisions are 3- to 4-years-old, 5-6, 7-9, 10-12 and 13-15. Due to gym renovations, the basketball season was pushed back a few weeks, which condensed the season into a smaller time frame.
“We have so many games a week, we are only able to fit one practice in,” said Jeffrey Jones, coach for the 10- to 12-year-old Clippers.
Teams are not letting the fast-paced season get to them early.
They are moving with the pace and progressing the best they can. Common goals for the season amongst the teams are not to win every game or be the best but rather to learn, improve their skills and become good sports.
The youth basketball season is more than just basketball. It is cheerleading as well.
This year, youth basketball has put together three cheer squads. The age groups for the cheer squads are 3- to 4-years-old, 5-6, and 7 and up.
The youth basketball program has continued to grow and develop from last season.
It has gone from 21 teams to 32 in a matter of one year and looks forward to great success for both the young athletes and the program.
For additional information on updates or standings, call the Marine Corps Community Services Youth Sports division at 253-5777.