Youth in Emery County kicked off the Jr. Jazz season this week. Boys and girls both met on the court, battling in games throughout the county.
“Jr. Jazz, the longest-running youth basketball league in the NBA, has been shaping the face of local amateur sports since 1983,” the organization’s website explained. “Beginning with only 7,133 participants, this popular program has grown to impact the lives of 50,000 to 60,000 youth annually.”
Kindergarten students through 12th grade students are eligible to participate in Jr. Jazz. Individual programs are managed through recreation centers in Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, Montana, Arizona and Nevada.
“Jr. Jazz emphasizes the development of teamwork and fundamental basketball skills, accompanied by positive adult participation,” the organization continued. “Jr. Jazz also has a sportsmanship initiative that recognizes and rewards kids, coaches and parents for being good sports. Each year, top-ranking sportsmanship winners receive a party at Vivint Smart Home Arena where awards are presented.”
