Tamil Nadu - Thanjavur   

Catching them young

Photo: M. Srinath

LEARNING THE STEPS: Students attending basketball summer camp in Thanjavur on Tuesday. —

THANJAVUR: The 80-odd youngsters attending the summer basketball coaching camp at the Annai Sathya Stadium here have been slogging hard for a week or so to learn the rudiments of the game.

The aspiring hoopsters undergo training under the watchful eyes of Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT) basketball coach K. Babu.

“The response to basketball camp has always been good at Thanjavur. Compared to last year, there is an increase in the number of registrations, which is an enough proof to the growing popularity for the game among youngsters in the district,” Mr. Babu says.

With most of them at the camp being beginners, due importance is given to make them get the basics right. “Conditioning and other fitness related exercises form a part of the morning session and in the evening hours, the budding cagers are taught dribbling, passing and shooting, and rules of the game,” he adds.

Apart from height, speed is very important to excel in basketball that is among the fastest games. The camp seeks to improve the speed and agility of the youngsters.

According to District Sports Officer S. Thamilselvan, most participants are showing willingness to continue with their practice even after the camp concludes.

Appreciating the encouragement from the parents’ side, Mr. Thamilselvan observes that the camp would not be a success without their support.

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Catching them young

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