Balling to breaking down barriers

Specialist Hoops founder Emily Attard with Senior Constable Chris Owen and Acting Sergeant Stephen Attard. (Damjan Janevski) 393382_04

Specialist Hoops Basketball is teaming up with Victoria Police to invite the community to an Open Day on March 17.

Specialist Hoops is a basketball program that works to get kids and adults with physical and intellectual disabilities involved in the sport in Melton, Caroline Springs and Bacchus Marsh.

Founder Emily Attard said the Open Day with Victoria Police will include an education session around relationships and cyber safety, on court training stations and a talk from Special Olympian Jordan McCormick, before the day culminates in a match between Specialist Hoops and the Victorian Police basketball team.

“We are thrilled to be able bring this event to the City of Melton,” she said.

“The event is an Open Day for Specialist Hoops so people are able to see what the program is about. It is also to show connectedness with local authorities and how important it is to engage with police.

“It will be a day of education, fun, games, training and meet and greets.”

Victoria Police Amateur Basketball Association Michael Taylor said his aim of the day is to break down the barriers between police and the disability community, through mutual love of basketball.

“The Victoria Police Basketball Club is proud to partner with Specialist Hoops to be part of an amazing day which promotes physical exercise and inclusion for our community members that have disabilities,” he said.

“With the introduction of Disability Liaison Officers to Victoria Police, this event highlights what can be achieved with our stakeholders for the benefit of our priority communities.”

The event will take place on March 17 at Cobblebank Stadium from 12pm to 3pm.