Harmony Hoops is an initiative that aims to foster social cohesion and build community unity and cultural understanding through basketball. It targets culturally diverse youth, newly settled migrants, refugees, and individuals facing social isolation between the ages 12-15 within South Australia.

The Adelaide 36ers and the Australian Refugee Association have partnered to bring this important program to life within the community.

The program promotes active participation in physical activity while nurturing essential life skills such as leadership, wellbeing, resilience, teamwork, and cultural awareness.

Harmony Hoops is delivered in eight-week program blocks, which include weekly workshops and basketball clinics. The workshops, led by Adelaide 36ers community leaders, focus on empowering young people to build confidence and support personal development. These workshops are complemented by basketball clinics and play and challenge-based games that provide opportunities for participants to engage in team-based activities that promote collaboration and physical fitness, and build a love for active lifestyles.

At the end of each eight-week block, a Courts & Culture Night will be held to celebrate cultural diversity with food, activities, and cultural sharing. This event helps foster a sense of belonging and unity among participants.

Sessions are hosted at local community venues such as sports facilities and community centres, with transport support available to participants when needed. To maximise participation, the program will collaborate with local community organisations, schools, and cultural associations, and will utilise multilingual promotional materials to overcome language barriers.

At the conclusion of each block, participants will be encouraged to form basketball teams together and continue their participation in basketball, with ongoing support from the Adelaide 36ers and Australian Refugee Association. The program will culminate in a celebratory event at an Adelaide 36ers game, reinforcing a sense of achievement and community.

Harmony Hoops aims to create a more inclusive, connected, and active community for young people, addressing social isolation, discrimination, and cultural barriers while promoting physical activity and participation in sport.

To register your interest please email community@adelaide36ers.com.