On the ball: Midnight Basketball Mount Druitt chairman Michael Cruz believes Kevin Betts Stadium will be easily accessible to the community for the second term of the program. Picture: Gary Warrick
THERE will be more kids having a ball than those out on the street with nothing to do on Saturday nights.
Midnight Basketball is making a comeback, following its inaugural success at Emerton this year.
It will be held at Kevin Betts Stadium in Mount Druitt on Saturdays, starting October 20 at 7.30pm.
It's open to teenagers who live in the 2770 postcode.
Midnight Basketball is a national, community-run program in a safe environment for at-risk youth aged 12-18.
Each session starts with a healthy dinner and life skills workshop covering cyberbullying, drug and alcohol education, financial literacy and job readiness.
Participants must attend the workshop before having fun on the court.
Chairman and Mount Druitt youth worker Michael Cruz believes it will be more successful than last time when it started with 30 and grew to 75 teenagers.
"We're providing kids something to do on a Saturday that's free," he said.
"It's an opportunity to play basketball, learn new skills and make new friends. I played basketball as a junior, where I learned many values and life lessons."
Organisers received positive feedback about the inaugural program from parents and participants.
"A lot of kids were asking when the next one was happening," Mr Cruz said.
Chifley MP Ed Husic remains on board as Midnight Basketball patron and will host a luncheon for the 10 inaugural participants who had a 100 per cent attendance record.
Mount Druitt police will also make several appearances.
"It's a catalyst to build a better relationship between the cops and young people," Mr Cruz said.
The program will run for eight weeks and end on December 8.
Organisers welcome volunteers and participants.
Participants must find their own way there but a bus will take them home at midnight.
Details: Red Cross Blacktown 9229 4272 or go to midnightbasketball.org.au/mtdruitt