During the last weekend in June, the vibrant city of Spokane, Washington, was filled with the rhythmic sounds of basketballs bouncing and the exhilarating cheers of passionate fans. Basketball enthusiasts from all walks of life gathered downtown for Hoopfest, the largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament in the world. The event showcased the incredible spirit of competition, sportsmanship, and community that basketball fosters.
Believe in Me’s Sponsorship: Empowering Youth on and off the Court
As an organization deeply committed to youth development and empowerment, Believe in Me actively participated in Hoopfest by sponsoring a court. The court, adorned with the Believe in Me logo, was a powerful representation of their support for the event and the community. In line with the unique design of the tournament, where courts are named rather than numbered, Believe in Me’s sponsored court became a prominent fixture during the games.
The court’s backboards, serving as mini billboards, prominently displayed the Believe in Me logo, making a visual impact on players and spectators alike. This branding extended beyond the physical court, as the name and logo were featured on the bracket sheet, mobile app, and sponsor page on the Hoopfest website. Additionally, as players captured in-game photos of their teams, the Believe in Me court became a part of their social media presence, further amplifying the organization’s support and engagement.
By sponsoring a court, Believe in Me promoted youth empowerment through sports. The branded court provided a space for young athletes to compete and showcase their skills, symbolizing Believe in Me’s commitment to fostering self-confidence and supporting the community.
A Slam Dunk Partnership: Hoopfest and Believe in Me Unite for Youth Development
For the past 31 years, the Spokane Hoopfest Association has been instrumental in transforming lives through basketball. The organization has launched several programs, donated $2.5 million to local charitable organizations, and constructed over 30 community basketball courts in the Inland Northwest. Hoopfest has become an integral part of the community, promoting physical activity, teamwork, and community engagement.
Believe in Me’s partnership with Hoopfest amplifies the positive impact of both organizations. By combining the power of basketball with Believe in Me’s commitment to self-confidence and personal growth, young participants are given a unique opportunity to develop athletic and life skills. This collaboration has proven transformative, empowering children to embrace their potential on and off the court.
Introducing the Hooptown Youth League
Building upon the success of Hoopfest, we are proud to support the Hooptown Youth League (HYL) as an upgraded after-school basketball program for K-6 students in the Spokane area. The league offers structured divisions—recreational, competitive, and advanced competitive—allowing individual registration and team formation based on neighborhood schools. The HYL aims to foster neighborhood relationships and make basketball accessible and affordable for all participants.
In the recreational division, children learn basketball basics starting from kindergarten, have fun with friends, and engage in fitness activities during the fall and winter months. The HYL ensures participation by organizing school-based teams and utilizing cost-effective grade school gyms. For those interested, there is an optional second season after the HYL, where teams can continue playing, participate in “Rivalry Games,” and compete in tournaments organized by Hoopfest.
Starting from 3rd grade, the competitive division provides a more intense basketball experience. Teams are formed based on high school boundaries, connecting players with their future high schools. The HYL creates a balanced game schedule considering last season’s performance and preseason evaluations. The season culminates in a tournament that matches teams based on skill levels. Additionally, for highly skilled players in the 5th and 6th grades, Hoopfest sponsors regional teams that participate in Pacific Northwest tournaments.
Equitable Access and Scholarships
Believe in Me is committed to providing equal opportunities for all children, regardless of their financial circumstances. To ensure accessibility, Believe in Me provided at $10,000 grant which ensures the Hooptown Youth League (HYL) is able to offer a cost structure that allows anyone to participate. The league provides qualified discount and scholarship fee options, ensuring no child is excluded due to financial constraints. This commitment to inclusivity enables every child, regardless of background, to experience the joy of basketball and benefit from the comprehensive program.
In addition to affordability, the HYL offers a variety of divisions and programs to cater to different skill levels. Starting from kindergarten, beginners and recreational players can learn the basics of basketball, have fun with friends, and engage in fitness activities during the fall and winter months. The program makes participation fun and easy by organizing school-based teams, utilizing cost-effective grade school gyms, and attracting sponsors to cover uniform costs.
For competitive players, starting from the 3rd grade, the HYL forms teams based on high school boundaries, providing a more intense basketball experience. The season is longer, with customized schedules and practices held twice weekly. The league aims to create a balanced and competitive environment by considering last season’s performance and preseason evaluations. Additionally, highly skilled players in the 5th and 6th grades can participate in regional tournaments sponsored by Hoopfest.
The HYL is designed to be accessible, affordable, and enjoyable for all participants. It allows them to develop their basketball skills, foster neighborhood relationships, and experience the benefits of sportsmanship and teamwork.
Learning Beyond the Game
The Hooptown Youth League goes beyond simply providing a platform for young players to showcase their basketball skills. Recognizing that sports can be a powerful tool for personal growth and development, the league incorporates weekly lessons extending beyond the game. Players can learn from local high school coaches, who serve as mentors and role models, instilling values such as teamwork, leadership, and mental toughness.
These lessons go hand in hand with basketball skills development, creating a well-rounded experience for the participants. The league recognizes that the skills learned on the court can be translated into valuable life skills, helping children navigate challenges and succeed in various aspects of their lives. By fostering an environment where learning is not limited to basketball, the Hooptown Youth League aims to equip young players with the tools they need to thrive on and off the court.
Be a Part of Change: Join Us in Me in Empowering Young Athletes
Believe in Me’s involvement in Hoopfest and the introduction of the Hooptown Youth League exemplifies the organization’s commitment to empowering youth and creating positive change in the community. Through the power of basketball, Believe in Me helps children develop self-confidence, resilience, and essential life skills.
With its rich history of transforming lives through basketball, Hoopfest is the perfect backdrop for Believe in Me to engage with the community and promote inclusivity and personal growth. The impact of Hoopfest and the collaboration between Believe in Me and the event have paved the way for introducing the Hooptown Youth League, further solidifying the commitment to youth development.
As we look ahead, it is crucial to continue supporting organizations like Believe in Me and events like Hoopfest that prioritize inclusivity, equitable access, and the overall well-being of our youth. Together, we can build a community where every child can develop their full potential, regardless of background or circumstances.
Join Believe in Me and the Hooptown Youth League in their mission to empower young individuals, foster self-confidence, and create a brighter future for all. Together, we can make a difference, one basketball game and one child at a time. Believe in Me, believe in the power of every child.
