On Saturday, December 4, PPI-NI hosted its annual Jingle Ball basketball tournament for 9-13 year olds at Stranmillis College in Belfast. Participants enjoyed a day of basketball matches and team-building exercises on integrated teams, coached by PPI-NI staff members, local coaches and volunteers.
Approximately 180 children attended the tournament, with most participants coming from PPI-NI’s twinning program. We also had about a dozen Cross-Community League participants (14 – 16 year olds) volunteer as coaches, referees, and score keepers – including Coaches Lauren Bracken and Joe Fitzpatrick, who coached their teams to victory in the finals!
Other highlights of the day included a creative Grinch-themed skit by Coaches Rory O’Neil, Darryl Petticrew, Dean Polly and Declan Polly, some great music by DJ Topper, and of course, the many new friendships that were formed amidst the spirited cheering, jump shots and high fives!
Lastly, we’d like to thank the Belfast City Council’s Anti-Social Behavior Unit for their generous funding and ongoing support!
