New Hanover Senior Basketball looking for more players
Nonprofit also supports other sports of many ability levels
WILMINGTON, N.C. (WWAY) – On Mondays and Thursdays at Grace United Methodist Church in downtown Wilmington, some of the city’s old heads congregate to hoop.
“Everyone gets along. there’s no bullying here in senior league. It’s not tolerated,” said Chirs Pinket, the league’s organizer. “If a guy falls down, you see they stop the game they pick him up and keep it going. There’s no arguing – if you get fouled you get fouled and if you want to argue there are other places you can play.”
The players are from all over North Carolina and beyond, and the league is in its second year. Right now, there are 24 players signed up. They play four quarter games with a referee and keep stats. Some teams have a substitute, and the age ranges from 50s to almost 80. There are two different seasons spanning the year – one for the fall and winter and one for the spring and summer. Frank King says once you start dribbling the ball, everything you know about basketball comes back to you.
“I have kids coming up they are playing ball in middle school,” adds King. “For them to hear Dad is still playing ball – that’s amazing.”
On top of youth programs, the nonprofit is also creating leagues for wheelchair basketball, special needs basketball, senior basketball, women’s basketball, and special needs indoor flag football. To get involved you can email Chris Pinket at Chrispinket@yahoo.com
