Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Boys and girls ages 4-14 from Isle of Wight County, Franklin, Southampton County, Greensville County, Suffolk and Northeast North Carolina are invited to participate in the third annual FDPR/Camp25 Basketball and Cheer League.

The deadline to register is Sunday, Dec. 29.

Camp25 Executive Director Eric Benton noted that this coed league will feature three different age divisions:

• Rookie Division for ages 4-7;
• Junior Division for ages 8-10; and
• Senior Division for ages 11-14.

“Our league keeps kids active, teaches them about working hard, sportsmanship, and provides them with a positive environment to learn about the great games of basketball and cheer,” Benton said.

All games and practices will be held in the Joseph P. King Jr. Career and Technical Academy gymnasium at 501 Charles St. in Franklin. 

Practices will be held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays depending on the child’s team, and game days, which will be Sundays, will feature game times from 1:30-7 p.m. on the following dates: Jan. 12, 19 and 26, Feb. 2, 9, 16 and 23 and March 2. If needed, March 9 will serve as a makeup date.

Franklin Department of Parks and Recreation (FDPR) Director Sammara Green said, “This year marks the third annual Basketball and Cheer League, a testament to our strong partnership with Camp25. Collaborating with Mr. Benton, Camp25’s executive director, has been an honor, and we deeply appreciate Franklin City Public Schools for allowing us to use their facilities for this phenomenal program. This collaboration exemplifies community partnerships at their best, working together to provide impactful opportunities for our youth.”

Green spoke to the overall benefit of the Basketball and Cheer League when she noted that it offers an invaluable opportunity for youth to develop teamwork, discipline and leadership skills through structured athletic programs. 

“It also fosters community engagement and pride, bringing families together in support of our young athletes,” she said. “When we hosted the league’s first year, 193 children registered to participate. By the second year, that number grew to 208, comprising 13 basketball teams and three cheer squads. Reaching so many children underscores the program’s success in creating meaningful connections and teaching the importance of sportsmanship, all while showcasing an organized and enjoyable experience.”

Benton noted that league participants in the past hailed from Franklin, Southampton, Isle of Wight, Suffolk and North Carolina, and both he and Green made a point to extend an invitation anew across that region and beyond.

“It’s game time!” Benton said. “Please join FDPR/Camp25 as we partner for our third annual Basketball and Cheer League.”

Green said, “We warmly invite all children ages 4-14 to join our Basketball and Cheer League. This program is open to everyone, ensuring no child is left behind. We also host a basketball clinic before the season starts to help participants build their skills and confidence.”

This clinic is set for Sunday, Dec. 29, from 2-5 p.m. at the Joseph P. King Jr. Career and Technical Academy gym.

“It’s truly a joy to see kids grow from their first game to the end of the season, building not only their athletic abilities but also their sense of accomplishment and camaraderie,” Green said. “Parents, we encourage you to sign your children up — they will not be disappointed. Mr. Benton and I look forward to another wonderful season filled with growth, excitement and community spirit.”

Benton noted that those interested in registering can do so at www.Camp25.org.

For more information, text or call 757-653-1667 or call the Franklin Parks and Recreation office at 757-562-2475.