Shoot Basketballs NOT People Player Development and Mindfulness Program

The Shoot Basketballs NOT People Player Development and Mindfulness Program is a holistic youth empowerment initiative designed to nurture the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of young people through basketball and mindfulness. Rooted in the belief that safe spaces, emotional regulation, and high-level skill development can save lives, this program provides a transformative experience for youth in underserved communities—particularly in neighborhoods impacted by gun violence, poverty, and limited access to structured athletic development.

Program Components:

• Basketball Player Development:
  Participants engage in weekly skill development sessions focused on fundamentals, advanced techniques, IQ-building drills, and position-specific training. Certified coaches and former college/professional players lead high-intensity workouts while emphasizing discipline, teamwork, and growth mindset.
• Strength & Conditioning:
  Athletes receive age-appropriate strength, agility, and endurance training tailored to improve performance and reduce injuries. Sessions also include nutrition guidance and recovery techniques.
• Mindfulness & Emotional Resilience:
  Each week, participants engage in guided mindfulness sessions, including breathing exercises, meditation, journaling, and visualization. These sessions are led by trained facilitators and focus on stress reduction, trauma response, emotional literacy, and goal-setting.
• Mentorship & Leadership Development:
  Youth are matched with mentors and community leaders who provide guidance on academic goals, decision-making, and college/career readiness. Participants take part in workshops on conflict resolution, identity, and purpose.
• Community & Cultural Engagement:
  The program hosts open runs, showcases, community events, and field trips to colleges and cultural institutions. These experiences expand participants’ horizons and help them build meaningful relationships beyond the court.

Program Goals:

• Reduce youth involvement in violence by offering a safe, consistent outlet.
• Build confident, emotionally aware athletes ready for success in life and sport.
• Provide an alternative pathway rooted in love, healing, discipline, and hope.

Ages:
Youth ages 8–16 (Co-Ed)

Location:
Germantown Friends School Fieldhouse
5445 Greene Street (Corner of Greene and School House Lane)
Philadelphia, PA 19144

Gym access through parking lot on School House Lane (Add direction from I-95North and South and Roosevelt Boulevard – Route 1)

Slogan:
"Less Excuses. More Adjustments."

Details on training schedules:
Sundays 12-2pm
All


Age Groups:
Elementary (4-5th Grade)
Middle (6-8th Grade)
High School (9-11th Grade)

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Location:
Germantown Friends School Fieldhouse
5445 Greene Street (Corner of Greene and School House Lane)
Philadelphia, PA 19144
Gym access through parking lot on School House Lane (Add direction from I-95North and South and Roosevelt Boulevard – Route 1)