Three innovative basketball training camps were successfully organized in Greece as part of the European project “ASSIST” The camps, held at the Evnikos Stadium on January 29-31, February 15-21, and March 11-16, 2025, marked a unique blend of traditional games and modern basketball drills, creating an enriching experience for young athletes.
Athletes aged 5 to 18 participated in training sessions that combined classic games such as tag, dodgeball, statues, “ampareza,” and fox-hen-chickens with basketball fundamentals and 3×3 matches. These camps were not just about skill-building in basketball; they were an avenue for learning through fun, fostering teamwork, and developing social skills. The use of familiar traditional games offered a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, ensuring that all participants felt comfortable and engaged.
Organized in collaboration with G.A.S. Evnikos Academy and other local sports clubs, the camps included a range of engaging activities. Friendly matches provided participants with opportunities to apply their skills in real-game scenarios, while one-day events offered a chance to interact with teams such as A.P.S. Filippos Peristeriou and Apollon Kalamarias. Highlights included fun matches between the G.A.S. Evnikos Junior team and their peers from these visiting clubs, promoting camaraderie and shared love for the sport.
The camps aimed at more than athletic excellence; they were designed to inspire creativity, cooperation, and lifelong connections among young athletes. The focus on traditional games tied to local cultural heritage allowed participants to appreciate the value of collective play while honing their basketball abilities.
What made these training sessions particularly remarkable was their inclusiveness. Open to everyone and free of cost, the camps welcomed children from diverse backgrounds to join the sports community. This initiative reflected the core values of the ASSIST project, prioritizing equal opportunities and fostering social inclusion through sports.
The events were filled with joyful moments and showcased the power of play and collaboration. Whether it was a game of 3×3 basketball or the energetic group activity of “ampareza,” every session emphasized the importance of teamwork and mutual respect. Young athletes not only learned new skills but also created lasting memories on the court.
The basketball training camps at the Evnikos Stadium were a resounding success, demonstrating how traditional games and modern sports techniques can unite to inspire and equip the next generation of athletes. Through these efforts, the ASSIST project continues to leave a lasting positive impact on youth communities across Greece and beyond.