‘Be Own Sports’ launches fourth basketball boot camp

The Be Own Sports Foundation on November 3 launched the fourth edition of its annual basketball boot camp, with this year’s theme centered on leadership.

The camp, currently underway at the Utalii Sports Grounds, has brought together 100 young participants — 50 girls and 50 boys — drawn from across Nairobi County. From this group, 20 players (10 boys and 10 girls) will be selected to advance to the national camp, where they stand a chance of earning sponsorship under the foundation’s program.

The participants were scouted from various junior secondary and high schools by a team of 15 coaches, based on their skill level and leadership potential.

Maurice Obilo, Director and Camp Coordinator at Be Own Sports, said the initiative aims to give back to the community by nurturing young talent, offering hope to underprivileged children, and steering them away from negative influences.

“We’re just trying to give back and encourage the young generation to stay on the right path,” Obilo said.

He added that the camp emphasizes both sports and education, helping participants pursue academic and athletic scholarships.

“Our major success will be seeing at least one child through school. We already have several kids under Be Own sponsorship, and we hope to support even more to reach greater heights,” he added.

Participants such as Brian Opiyo and Nyamal Pal expressed excitement about improving their basketball and leadership skills while hoping to earn scholarship opportunities through the program.

Coach Brian Busaka noted that the camp will run for one month, engaging young athletes from across Nairobi and instilling positive values in society.

“This is an opportunity for them. We’re not only nurturing their skills but also preparing those who want to go professional,” Busaka remarked, adding that some participants could eventually compete in national or international leagues, including the fast-growing Basketball Africa League (BAL).

The Foundation plans to extend the camp to other regions, including Kisumu, Eldoret, and Kakamega, with selected players from those areas expected to join the national camp later in the year.