New half basketball court opens in Hastings
A new half-sized basketball court was officially opened at William Nelson Park in Hastings last week, aimed at adding to the activities available for young people in the district.
The Hastings District Council set aside $30,000 in the Long Term Plan to build the court that had been requested during the submission process.
Submitter Whaea Dee was at the opening on Thursday last week and said the courts would encourage people to be more active bringing not only physical benefits, but social and emotional as well.
She said basketball was an accessible sport for people of all abilities and ages and did not involve expenses beyond purchasing a ball.
“These basketball courts can be used by the serious players for more practice or just for pick-up games for fun and for families to play together.
“I’m really happy that the council listened and has put a court here and hopefully there can be more put in other places.”
A number of children and others got onto the court after the fence was removed last Thursday – some had their own balls and the council has also provided some balls to borrow.
Hastings district councillor Malcolm Dixon says that as a new councillor some five plus years ago one of the very first requests he had was from a group of young lads he had taught.
“They wanted more half courts throughout Hastings and I am delighted that they have finally been delivered,” he says.
“As the saying goes a youth involved in sport is very seldom in court. Sincere thanks to everyone involved in this initiative.”
