Wednesday night saw over 50 women playing social basketball in Olympia Leisure Centre as part of the inaugural She Got Game Blitz.
The She Got Game programme, run by Basketball NI and supported by Sport NI and National Lottery Funding was inspired by Belfast Bulls “Ma Bulls” as an incentive to inspire inclusion and empower women through playing basketball at a less competitive level. S&C Coach Catherine Dolliver and Physiotherapist Dervla Murphy were in attendance to warm the ladies up pre game, share their knowledge and expertise through the games and cool everyone down after an intense two hours of social basketball.
The blitz was a showcase of Newry Fliers, Magherafelt Titans and Ma Bulls dedication and commitment to the She Got Game programme throughout the last eight weeks. There was an overarching pride and sincere sportsmanship among each of the women who encouraged both team mates and opposition throughout the games.
The overwhelming support from family, friends, and children further highlighted the community spirit surrounding She Got Game. The constant buzz of cheering and encouragement echoed through the hall, underlining the significant impact the programme has had in bringing people together through the shared love of basketball.
Reflecting on the success of the evening, Basketball NI Programme Coordinator, Niamh Mac Manus, said “it was an absolute joy to witness so many women laughing, smiling and encouraging each other all while enjoying the sport of basketball. The sole objective for this programme was to empower women and inspire inclusion through basketball and that’s exactly what happened in Olympia on Wednesday night.”
Basketball NI is committed to continue this journey of social basketball throughout NI, with hopes of making the programme more accessible and inclusive for all and have begun preparations for the next blitz.
To find out more about the programme or how your club could become involved please contact Niamh Mac Manus on niamh@basketballni.com.
