The first Hoops 4 Health programme was delivered during the 2000 – 2001 academic year, visiting 32 of the 57 primary schools in the city of Newcastle upon Tyne. The 32 schools were representative of the most deprived wards in Newcastle. During the course of the programme over 4,000 nine and ten year olds were treated to an afternoon of interactive health education with the larger than life role models from the club.
The programme continues to have specific aims and objectives linked to the needs of partners. The key to the programme is in the utilisation of Eagles players to deliver a roadshow in each of the participating schools linked to current health messages. Basketball is promoted as an easy way to keep fit and enjoy yourself. The initial work of the players then feeds into the club’s basketball development scheme – giving children extended opportunities to play basketball.
The programme currently delivers to primary schools across the six councils of Newcastle, Sunderland, Gateshead, North and South Tyneside and Northumberland. The following details the project aims, delivery mechanism.
Programme Aims
To provide a healthy living programme with professional sporting role models, using basketball as an activity to convey a range of positive health messages to young people in primary schools, including the importance of keeping physically active and leading a healthy lifestyle.
This programme has been shown to have a positive benefit in influencing the participants, working with Eagles players as role models and encouraging young people to take part in physical activity.
Programme Structure
Stage 1 – Roadshow
The afternoon concentrates on the following health messages; mental and social well-being, how to stay fit and look after the heart and lungs, stay hydrated with tap water, healthy eating including portion size and a balanced diet, plus the opportunity to play some basketball.
Stage 2 – Coaching
A level 2 qualified Eagles Community Foundation coach delivers in school 4 hours of basketball for year 5 pupils.
Stage 3 – Regional Tournaments
Schools enter a tournament held at a local facility for Year 5. Tournaments on average host 300-400 participants in a one day competition, each local authority area receive at least one tournament.
Stage 4 – Tournament Finals
Tournament semi – finals and finals are held at Eagles home venue, the Vertu Motors Arena, during pre-game and half-time of an Eagles home game.
Current funders of the programme are integrated into the design and delivery, this can involve visits, information to young people and presenting medals at the finals.
Player Pathway Exit Routes
Eagles Community Foundation Development Programme
The Hoops for Health programme is specifically delivered to primary schools in Northumberland and Tyne and Wear at Years 5. The programme links to the continuing Eagles Community Foundation basketball development programme. Participants in the Hoops for Health scheme are offered the opportunity to attend a range of Under 10 and Under 12s sessions across the area.
These clubs are based in geographic locations close to the primary school and are the first step in a continuum to participate through teenage years and into later life.
