LincolnBasketball won the Outstanding Contribution to Sport & Physical Activity Award, sponsored by Leonardo, at the Lincolnshire Sport & Physical Activity Awards 2022.

The award recognises an individual group or organisation that has made an outstanding contribution to participants through their commitment to provide sport or physical activity benefitting the health and wellbeing of others.

LincolnBasketball was recognised for their work engaging hundreds of people in the basketball community including new and existing league players, coaches, referees, officials, young players, parents and fans. Their sessions have reconnected and grown a diverse community of basketball players, encouraged participants to speak about mental health, and worked with young people from areas of deprivation and varied levels of educational engagement to provide a vibrant and inclusive set of leagues and competitions. The club set up a Central basketball league, developed junior coaching and delivered 3 x 3 sessions.

The club have also brought together a diverse group of referees and officials who have benefitted from the league's social aspect and provided a location for families and fans to spectate for free in accessible community spaces.

We spoke to Jim from LincolnBasketball to find out more:

What are you most proud of, and what are your biggest successes over the last year or so?

At LincolnBasketball, we are most proud of the growth and development of our league over the last year. We have seen an increase in participation, both in terms of new teams joining the league and individual players signing up. Our Junior coaching sessions have also successfully introduced young players to the game and helped them develop their skills. We are particularly proud of our positive impact on the local community by providing opportunities for people to engage in the sport.

What does winning the award mean to you?

Winning the award is a testament to our entire community's hard work and dedication, including our coaches, volunteers, and players. It means a lot to us as it recognises our efforts to grow basketball in the area, and it serves as motivation to continue improving and expanding our reach within the community.

Have you got any plans for 2023 that you’d like to share?

As for our plans in 2023, we intend to further expand our league by adding a new structure, playoffs and tournaments; creating more opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels to participate across the county. We will also focus on enhancing our coaching and development programs, offering additional training sessions and workshops to help players improve their skills. Additionally, we aim to strengthen our connections with local schools and community organisations to encourage more people to get involved with basketball.

How can people get involved in LincolnBasketball?

People can get involved in LincolnBasketball in a variety of ways. They can join as players by signing up individually or forming a team with friends or colleagues. We also welcome volunteers to help with various aspects of running the league, such as media, stats, or sports management. Those interested in becoming coaches or officials can also work with our leadership committee to develop their skills and contribute to the growth of basketball in the area. To get started, visit our website or contact us through social media for more information on how to join and participate.

Nominations for the Lincolnshire Sport & Physical Activity Awards 2023 are now open. Find out more and make your nomination today.

Thank you to Leonardo for sponsoring the Outstanding Contribution to Sport & Physical Activity Award 2022.