ABA announces Grow the Game program

Alberta Basketball Association (ABA) is reaching more players than ever through its new Grow the Game program. Grow the Game will be available on a year-round basis, visiting schools and communities that request camps.

“We are thrilled to be bringing the Grow the Game camps to Alberta, providing top quality basketball experiences around the province,” says Dave Drabiuk, ABA executive director.

“The program will allow us to engage with coaches and players around the province, delivering on our mission to grow the game in our province, starting at the grassroots level.”

Programming will be overseen by Grow the Game program leader Shayne Midford, who has been involved with the sport as a player or coach for more than 30 years and has experience coaching at all levels of youth basketball including with ABA provincial teams.

“We have recruited a variety of coaches with similar mindsets in growth and development that are passionate about growing every athlete attending our camps, both in knowledge and skill,” says Midford.

“These connections with coaches will develop and enhance players in all communities across Alberta, giving them the necessary tools to increase their success and passion for the sport.”

Alberta has a population approaching 5 million, spread across a region of nearly 650,000 square km. By visiting more remote locations, Grow the Game helps address issues of accessibility, Drabiuk says.

“These camps will allow players to receive high-performance aligned instruction to meet them where they are at, both literally and figuratively.”

Schools, clubs, and community recreation organizations wishing to obtain more information about Grow the Game and request a camp can contact Midford at camps@albertabasketball.ca.