Catanzaro and Siderno, Calabria, are set to host “We Seek to Play Basket” on March 8, 2026, a nationwide initiative aimed at introducing young girls to the sport of basketball. The event, promoted by the Italian Basketball Federation’s (FIP) Minibasket sector, seeks to foster a fun, inclusive, and growth-oriented environment for aspiring young athletes.
Building on the success of last year’s event, “We Want to Play Basket” will seize place simultaneously across Italy, with Calabria playing a prominent role. The initiative aims to engage more girls, families, and sports clubs, transforming basketball courts into spaces dedicated to enjoyment, inclusion, and personal development. The event underscores a growing commitment to expanding opportunities for women and girls in Italian basketball.
The Calabrian leg of the event will feature two locations: the gymnasium of the Istituto Marconi in Siderno and the Pala Pulerà Giovino in Catanzaro. Both events are scheduled to run from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM local time (UTC+1). Participants can expect a morning filled with games, enthusiasm, and camaraderie, focusing on the joy of Minibasket rather than competitive standings. Activities will include matches, playful exercises, and opportunities for social interaction.
Paolo Surace, President of FIP Calabria, emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “This day represents a special moment for our movement because it unites Minibasket, which is the base of our sporting pyramid, with the celebration of women in sport. Seeing so many girls running and smiling on the basketball courts means looking to the future of basketball with confidence.” Surace further highlighted the educational and cultural value of sports, noting that events like “We Want to Play Basket” promote essential values such as respect, sharing, and equal opportunities.
The FIP Calabria president added, “Sport is an extraordinary educational and cultural tool. Events like We Want to Play Basket help to convey fundamental values such as respect, sharing and equal opportunities. Calabrian basketball wants to continue to grow similarly through the female sector and Minibasket, creating more and more spaces for new generations.”
This initiative arrives at a crucial time for women’s basketball globally, as participation rates continue to climb and the demand for increased visibility and investment grows. Events like “We Want to Play Basket” are vital in nurturing the next generation of players and fostering a lifelong love of the game. The focus on non-competitive play at the Minibasket level is particularly important, allowing young girls to develop fundamental skills and build confidence without the pressure of winning or losing.
The event’s emphasis on inclusivity is also noteworthy. By creating a welcoming environment for girls of all skill levels, “We Want to Play Basket” aims to break down barriers to participation and encourage a more diverse range of athletes to embrace the sport. This aligns with broader efforts within the FIP to promote gender equality and create more opportunities for women in all aspects of basketball, from playing to coaching and administration.
For families in Calabria, this event provides a unique opportunity to introduce their daughters to the world of basketball in a supportive and engaging setting. The FIP Calabria encourages all local sports clubs, families, and girls to participate in this celebration of women’s basketball. The event serves as a reminder of the power of sport to inspire, empower, and unite communities.
Following the events in Siderno and Catanzaro, the FIP Calabria will continue to focus on developing the female Minibasket sector, with plans for further initiatives and programs to support young players and coaches. The federation is committed to creating a sustainable pathway for girls to progress through the ranks of Italian basketball, from Minibasket to the professional level.
The next step for those interested in participating or learning more about “We Want to Play Basket” is to contact their local FIP Calabria affiliated sports club for details on registration and event logistics. Further updates and information will be available on the FIP Calabria website in the coming weeks.
Readers can share their thoughts and experiences with the event on social media using the hashtag #WeWantToPlayBasket.
