JackJumpers make presence felt in the Valley

New Norfolk has had a distinct shade of green in recent weeks with the Tasmania JackJumpers having a strong presence in the Derwent Valley through their community programs.

JackJumpers Head Coach Scott Roth paid a special visit to New Norfolk High School and New Norfolk Primary School, engaging with students and sharing his passion for basketball. The visit was a part of the JackJumpers' community program, aimed at inspiring the next generation of athletes and growing the game.

More than 130 upper primary students heard from and had the opportunity to ask questions of Roth, who has been at the helm of the JackJumpers since the club’s inception in 2020 and is the reigning NBL Championship winning coach.

“The students were very engaged and thrilled to hear about Scott’s journey from his NBA playing and coaching career, to how he arrived in Tasmania and his advice on having a growth mindset and the importance of enjoying sport” JackJumpers Head of Community, Frances Lockhart said.

Roth expanded on his coaching philosophies while speaking with around 250 New Norfolk High School students, exploring themes around building strong habits to serve you in life after school. He also spoke about resilience, hard work, and the opportunities that can arise through this approach.

“Let me ask you something” Roth began “… how many of you make your bed in the morning?”

Whilst this question was met by giggles from Roth’s teenage audience, what preceded was a discussion on developing good practices, vulnerability, and how Scott’s relationship “with this round, orange ball” had taken him around the globe.

The JackJumpers will be back in the Derwent Valley on Saturday 22 March, hosting basketball skills clinics at the New Norfolk Sports Centre.

The JackJumpers “Mini Ants” program caters to those aged 5-9 years, with fun basketball games and beginner skills led by Tasmania’s favourite mascot, Jack the Jumper. The JackJumpers community coaches will then lead a Skills Session, with basketball skills and development for 10-12 year olds, or those ready to take their game to the next level.

Each participant receives their own basketball, great prizes, and post-basketball snacks thanks to Banjo’s Bakery. These clinics aim to get kids active and, perhaps like Scott Roth, inspire a similar love of “that round, orange ball”. 

For those in the Valley looking for more info, go to: jackjumpers.com.au/clinics