Carolyn Johnson, Gleaner Writer
Jeff Rodgers receives a gift from the chairman of the basketball clinic, Omar Davies, at the National Indoor Sports Centre, last year. - file
The Arnett Gardens Sport Complex was flooded with young people on Monday at the first day of the second annual Jeff Rodgers Basketball Camp.
Before the participants hit the court, there was an opening ceremony with Member of Parliament Omar Davies giving a brief address.
Davies thanked the sponsors and the Jeff Rodgers team for hosting the camp. He also told those present to take advantage of the camp, citing that it was not only about basketball, but discipline and life. Other sponsors also expressed their joy at being a part of the camp.
After the man himself, Rodgers, took the microphone, the moment everyone was waiting for began.
More than 100 youngsters lined the courts according to age. They sang the National Anthem and recited the National Pledge. They were then introduced to the Camp Pledge that teaches discipline, dedication and determination.
Rodgers explained that this session was aimed at character building and developing respect for one's country.
"The main focus is about character building. You could be a great basketball player but if you have no discipline, basketball skills won't take you anywhere in life," Rodgers noted.
When the session ended, the real fun began. Each age group was assigned to coaches where they did drills and learnt shot techniques.
Shuttle Buses
According to project director Tracy Hamilton, this year is expected to be bigger as unlike last year, the camp was advertised in schools, clubs and communities. To accommodate the children, shuttle buses will run from Half-Way Tree, Cross Roads and Spanish Town.
Rodgers also told The Gleaner he was amazed at how determined the children were last year and he is excited to be back.
"I think it's a pity we can only have the camp for one week, but what we experienced in one week is amazing. I think they are more determined to learn. Last year gave me a broader picture on why your track programme is so successful. It seems to come natural from the determination and attitude I see in basketball," he said.
The Jeff Rodgers Basketball Camp started on Sunday and runs through to July 29. After the opening stint at Arnett, there were other camps at Tivoli on Tuesday and Waterhouse yesterday.
The top players from the respective camps will be invited to an intense two-day camp at G.C. Foster College today and tomorrow.
