Maximising Opportunities to Play Basketball
At LDM, we believe basketball should be accessible to everyone, regardless of background or experience. We are committed to breaking down barriers to participation, ensuring that as many young people as possible have the opportunity to engage with the sport in a way that suits their needs.
To achieve this, we will:
Increase the availability of basketball sessions by working closely with schools, community organisations, and statutory bodies such as Leeds Youth Service to reach more young people, particularly those who may not otherwise have access to structured sporting opportunities. Through these partnerships, we will embed basketball into school and youth service provision, ensuring that more young people have the chance to play regularly in safe and familiar settings.
Remove financial and logistical barriers by keeping costs low, offering subsidised sessions, and delivering basketball in locations that are easily accessible to participants. Our partnerships will help us identify and support young people who may benefit the most from these opportunities, ensuring that basketball is truly inclusive.
Create a welcoming environment for girls, ensuring sessions are designed to foster confidence, enjoyment, and long-term engagement. We will work to increase the number of female coaches and leaders by providing training and development opportunities, creating strong role models, and ensuring that more women are represented in coaching and leadership positions.
Provide clear pathways through our National League programme, giving them access to high-level coaching, structured competition, and further development opportunities. Our 16-19 Academy will also offer a focused training and leadership pathway, helping young athletes develop both their sporting ability and life skills.
Increase competitive playing opportunities by establishing a Central Venue League (CVL), providing regular, structured competition for young people at all levels. This will ensure that more players have the chance to develop their skills in a competitive but supportive environment, whether they are new to the sport or aiming to progress further.
Keep posted for further updates as we continue our growth over the coming year!