Brighton Sparks
Junior basketball in Brighton for children aged 6+
Phoenix Sparks Basketball runs welcoming junior basketball sessions in Brighton for children aged 6 and above.
Beginners are welcome, and children can build confidence, learn the game and develop at their own pace in a safe, supportive club environment.
The first session is free. Please contact us before attending so we can confirm the right session and check availability.
A friendly first step into basketball
Starting a new sport can feel like a big step, especially if your child has never played before.
Our junior basketball sessions help children feel included, learn the basics and enjoy being part of a team.
Some players come for fun, fitness and confidence. Others may grow towards the under 12 team, team training, friendly matches, tournaments or league opportunities when they are ready.
There is no pressure to arrive as a finished player. The aim is to help each child start well, enjoy the game and develop at the right pace.
Junior basketball sessions in Brighton
Our junior basketball sessions currently run at The Old Boat Community Centre in Hollingbury, Brighton.
Thursday girls’ session: 4.45pm to 5.45pm
Saturday mixed session: 8.45am to 10am
The majority of sessions run alongside school term times, and some have limited capacity.
Please contact us before attending so we can confirm the session is going ahead, check there is space available and book your child’s place.
We also run an under 11 team for selected players. The team trains on Thursday evenings, with other ad hoc sessions arranged when needed.
This is an invite-only team, so players need to be asked to join rather than turning up without confirmation.
We also run training camps, tournaments, friendly matches and fun days during some school holidays and weekends.
Beginners, girls and boys are welcome
Your child does not need previous basketball experience to come along.
Our junior basketball sessions are open to girls and boys, with mixed sessions and a dedicated girls’ session currently available. We help young players build from the basics: movement, passing, shooting, defending, teamwork and understanding the game.
The aim is to help each child enjoy basketball and develop at the right pace for them.
Some players come for fun, fitness and confidence. Others may grow towards team training, friendly matches, tournaments or league opportunities when they are ready.
Through regular sessions, players can build:
- Confidence
- Coordination
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Fitness
- Decision-making
- Resilience
- Game understanding
Good junior sport does more than teach children how to play. It gives them a place to belong, contribute and keep going.
Experienced coaches parents can trust
Phoenix Sparks Basketball is led by experienced, qualified coaches who have worked in basketball, teaching and player development for many years.
Anne and Charlie Baverstock have started and run basketball clubs for over 30 years. Their experience includes school coaching, regional and national-level junior coaching, playing experience and long-term club development.
Katie Baverstock also supports the club as a coach, player, club secretary and table official, bringing current playing experience at international masters level.
All coaches are fully qualified and DBS checked.
FAQs
A few quick answers…
What age can children start?
Junior sessions are currently open to children aged 6 and above.
Are the sessions for girls and boys?
Yes. The club runs mixed junior sessions and a dedicated girls’ session is currently available.
Does my child need basketball experience?
No. Beginners are welcome.
Children can learn the basics, build confidence and develop at their own pace.
Can my child try a session first?
Yes. The first junior session is free.
Please contact us before attending so we can confirm the session is running, check there is space available and make sure your child is joining the right group.
Do I need to book before attending?
Yes. Please contact us before coming along.
This helps us confirm:
- The session is running
- There is space available
- Your child is joining the right group
- We can send any registration details in advance
Do I need to register my child?
Yes. Parents or guardians need to complete a registration form before a child takes part.
Where do junior sessions take place?
Most junior sessions take place at The Old Boat Community Centre in Hollingbury, Brighton.
Team training and matches may take place at Brighton Aldridge Community Academy in Falmer.
Do sessions run all year round?
Most junior sessions run alongside school term times.
The club may also run training camps, tournaments, friendly matches or fun days during school holidays or at weekends.
Can my child join a team?
Some junior players may be invited into the under 11 team, team training, friendly matches, tournaments or league opportunities when they are ready.
The club will explain the next step if this becomes suitable for your child.
Will my child need a Basketball England licence?
Only selected squad or league players usually need a Basketball England licence.
The club will explain this process when it becomes relevant.
Are coaches DBS checked?
Yes. Coaches are qualified and DBS checked.