This generous funding will directly support the launch and growth of our “Couch 2 Courtside” initiative, aimed at getting more people active and involved in basketball.

The Couch 2 Courtside program is designed to engage with inactive individuals in our local community, providing them with a fun and supportive pathway to basketball participation. Whether you're completely new to the sport or looking to get back into it, this program offers something for everyone.
Thanks to the funding, we’ve been able to secure venue space and qualified coaches to run weekly sessions focused on building participation and competitive play.

Key areas of focus for the program are:

Women’s & Girls’ Basketball
As we work towards achieving Level 2 Club Status with Basketball England, we are committed to creating a welcoming environment for women and girls to take part in basketball.
Our goal is to introduce new participants and encourage former players to reconnect with the sport. Whether you’re picking up a basketball for the first time or rediscovering your love for the game, we want to provide a consistent space where you can thrive.

Men’s Recreational Basketball
Our Men’s Recreational Basketball sessions are designed for men aged 18+ who are looking to live a healthier lifestyle while enjoying basketball. These sessions provide an opportunity for social connection, fitness, and fun. We aim to build a community where men can come together, get active, and have a great time on the court.

Why 3x3 Basketball?
Both the Women’s & Girls’ and Men’s Recreational sessions will focus on the 3x3 basketball format, which is a faster-paced, highly inclusive version of the game.
Club Coach Carl Colmer explains:

"We opted to promote Couch 2 Courtside in a 3x3 format because it offers an extra level of inclusivity. This version of basketball is all about getting everyone involved. With fewer players on the court, each participant gets more touches on the ball, more playing time, and more opportunity to learn and enjoy the game. It’s basketball for all!"

The 3x3 format is also great for building a sense of community and teamwork, as teams consist of just three players with one substitute. This allows for more dynamic play and keeps everyone engaged.

Weekly Sessions at Eston Leisure Centre

Thanks to the funding, we’re able to offer these sessions at Eston Leisure Centre on a weekly basis for the next year, giving participants the consistency they need to develop their skills and enjoy the benefits of regular physical activity.

Women’s & Girls' Session Times
Wednesdays: 17:00 - 18:00

Men’s Recreational Session Times
Wednesdays: 18:00 - 19:00

We are excited to build on the success of our first eight months as an officially affiliated club with Basketball England. With this new funding, we are looking forward to expanding our community even further, bringing more players together and introducing additional groups in the future.

Join Us!

If you’re interested in getting involved or learning more, we encourage you to come along to one of our sessions. Whether you’re looking to try something new or re-ignite your passion for basketball, there’s a place for you here. Let’s get active, have fun, and be part of our growing basketball community!

Thank you to Sport England and the Active Living Fund for supporting this initiative and helping us create lasting opportunities for local people to enjoy basketball!