By Stacy Case
Nearly 400 youths have taken center court this season, and after having been established back in the 1970s, it’s no coincidence that the Coral Springs Basketball Club players keep hoopin ‘ it up!
The league has consistently grown over the years, and offers play to those from age 6 up to high school. The CSBC, albeit a pinnacle recreational sports program in the city, incorporated a travel program element (the Coral Springs Explosion) several years ago within its league and was recently put in the spotlight for its continued excellence in youth sports. The program as a whole was presented an award last November at a League Directors Conference in Orlando from the Florida YBOA (Youth Basketball Organization of America) as the Organization of the Year. “Our slogan is, ‘this is the best game in town’ and I think it is,” says Richie Fraiman, who’s been President of the Coral Springs Basketball Club for nearly a decade. “Upon receiving the award I told the Board Members I love what they do and their attention to detail for our league.”
What other city sport offers four different seasons in which to participate? (Winter: from late Nov. -mid Feb., Spring: from late Mar. -early June, Summer: from late June -mid Aug., Fall: from early Sept. -late Oct.) And what other city sport offers BOTH a recreational and a travel program? Not too many city sports have all of those options under one roof. And acording to Richie, whether a child is a superstar on the hardwood, or tipping off for the first time, “These kids learn how to play together,” Richie adds. “Our first priority is that all of our kids are playing in a good, team-oriented atmosphere.” Right now, CSBC is comprised of six divisions, and 52 teams. There’s been so much participation that the league was able to create an all-girls program for some of the age groups. The younger teams play on outside courts at Mullins Park, whereas older teams play inside the Coral Springs Gymnasium. But before each season begins, players attend an evaluation so when the teams are being put together, there’s a fair balance of playing ability spread equally amongst the teams in each respective division.
And don’t forget…while it’s the parents who usually shuttle kids to/from the games and spend countless hours in the stands, the league also has an 18 and older division as well as a 40 and older division. “We cater to all ages of those who want to play basketball,” adds Richie. “Mostly though, I truly love being around the kids and seeing them grow over the years while they participate in our league.” CSBC is still accepting registrations for its Spring season, in which the last on-site sign-up is Feb. 4 at Mullins Hall from 1-3pm. For further information, visit csbchoops.com
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