YOUNGSTERS at schools across Worcester have been taking part in an innovative programme with the Worcester Wolves basketball team and the University of Worcester.
The Hoops for Health project is a national programme delivered by a number of professional basketball clubs and this year was delivered to about 700 primary schools across the country.
British Basketball League side the Worcester Wolves, based at the University of Worcester, were among those taking part, helping primary schoolchildren to stay fit and healthy.
Over the past seven weeks Wolves players and university students have visited 10 schools in Worcestershire to convey a range of positive health messages, including the importance of keeping physically active and eating healthily.
Dines Green Primary School in Worcester was among those to take part.
Headteacher Steve Gough said: “Schemes like this are vital to emphasise to children the importance of a healthy lifestyle. We are delighted to have worked with the University and Worcester Wolves.”
The programme was designed with the input and support of sports development officers, the primary care trust, Aim Higher and the Specialist Sports Colleges Officers network.
Topics related to the dangers of smoking and drinking alcohol and the importance of exercise and eating the correct food are covered in workshops during half-day visits to schools.
The Wolves players all attended a series of training days with the Wolves development specialist Michelle Morgan, who has undertaken intensive training in delivering the project at Hoops for Health national conferences.
The Wolves players and university sports students then worked together to advise the youngsters in interactive sessions which also included take home packs for the parents.
Mick Donovan, head of the university’s Institute of Sport and Exercise Science, said: “The youngsters and the schools that we have visited so far have really responded positively to the sessions and when we revisit it is encouraging to see that many claim to be implementing good practice from the sessions.
“The players seem to be benefiting also – which is good for the basketball team.”
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