Put bounce into your Friday nights

©istockphoto.com/LUGO

MORE than 40 people have already signed up for the eight-week Midnight Basketball program in Grafton.

Grafton Midnight Basketball committee chair Craig Howe said everyone who turned up last Friday for the first week had a great time and had a healthy dinner, followed by an introductory workshop.

"And the 20 volunteers who helped out had a wonderful experience connecting with the younger members of our community," he said.

Mr Howe said it was not too late to join.

"We have room for another 15 participants for the basketball competition, and are on the lookout for more volunteers. You don't need to come every week, but anything you can offer will be appreciated," he said.

The tournament tips-off in earnest this week with competition points up for grabs.

The workshop for the night will be delivered by Youth Directions Inc, and will focus on team-building, with the teams designing a coloured banner to display throughout the competition.

Midnight Basketball is designed for youth between the ages of 12-18 with no cost to participants.

Tournaments run for eight weeks from 7.30-11.30pm on Fridays, with all participants home by midnight.

Teams are given a healthy dinner, complete a compulsory workshop and play tournament basketball over the course of the evening.

The program and workshops are highly structured with a focus on life skills, job readiness and, of course, fun. Transport home from the venue is also provided.

More information go to midnightbasket ball.org.au/grafton or call 0408 946 528.