Launched in Redfern in 2007, midnight basketball has gone from strength to strength with tournaments now held throughout the country.

But without the support of around 15 volunteers each night, this successful program wouldn’t exist in Armidale.

Midnight basketball targets 12 to 18 year olds and provides them with a fun, healthy, social activity on a Saturday night in a safe environment. It’s proven to be a great platform to meet new people and break down barriers.

This free eight week program will be held at SportUNE from 7.30pm to midnight, starting on Saturday.

The midnight basketball program includes a basketball tournament, healthy dinners and interactive life skills workshops tackling issues such as nutrition, career skills, sexual health and drugs and alcohol.

In keeping with midnight basketball’s motto - ‘No Workshop, No Jump shot’ - all players must attend the workshop in order to play basketball. At the end of the night, all players are transported home to their front door.

“Midnight basketball is an exciting concept and I’d encourage both players and volunteers to give it a go,” said Joshua Edmunds, Armidale tournament manager.

“The committee, with the support of a number of community organisations including, SportUNE, PCYC, EACH and the Premier’s Department, have worked hard to create what we believe will be a successful community event.”

* Registration is open for both volunteers and players - visit www.midnightbasketball.org.au/Arm didale or contact Joshua Edmunds on 0401 492-218.