Basildon kids were taught how to slam-dunk by one of Britain's top basketball teams.

The Essex Leopards, who play in the British Basketball League, were on hand at Markhams Chase Leisure Centre, in Lee Chapel North, to teach youngsters new techniques.

Leopards, currently the ninth ranked team in the UK, took time out to take part in a new course being run by Basildon Council to help children enhance their sporting skills.

Shooting stars : Mike Almond from the Leopards coaches Ross Campbell, and Matthew Shyna, both aged 8. Picture: ROB BROWNE

Nav Oojagerr, London Leopards school co-ordinator, said: "This type of coaching is seen to benefit both local kids and the club by spreading the sport to those who may not regularly get involved in basketball or coaching sessions."

The course will run for the next eleven weeks, with two sessions held every Thursday between 4pm and 6pm.

Basildon Council offers courses in a range of sports, including football, netball, athletics, cricket, rugby and tennis.

For more information about the basketball coaching, contact Markhams Chase Leisure Centre on 01268 410126.

For details about the range of other sports coaching courses call 01268 294929.

Published Monday, April 14, 2003

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