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Young people enjoy first Special Schools Sports Association Basketball Competition

Ripley Leisure Centre has played host to Amber Valley’s first Special Schools Sports Association Basketball Competition.

More than 20 young people from The Delves Special School in Swanwick and Alderwasley Hall School in Belper took part in the event, which was led by Nathan Johnson from Duffield Dominators Basketball Club.

The young people, all aged between 12 and 16 and with a range of disabilities, took part in a coaching session, practising skills such as shooting, dribbling and passing.

For many it was also a first chance to play competitive basketball, as they split into teams to play games in the afternoon.

Nathan Johnson, who led the session, said: “It was a fabulous day and the kids have been spot on. Basketball is a great leveller.”

The event was also supported by teachers from the two schools, as well as Sports Development Officer Gareth Buckley and trainees from Amber Valley Borough Council’s Entry to Employment scheme.

It was the first time the Special Schools Sports Association has hosted a basketball competition, having previously organising events involving swimming, football, cricket, athletics and cross country.