One of our greatest shining stars in the wedge is an educator and doctor born in 1861, Almonte, Ontario. Dr. James Naismith became a sports coach as well as a physician.
While employed by the YMCA in Springfield, Massachusetts, Naismith was given 14 days to create an indoor sport to occupy restless young men during cold winter months. In December 1891, the YMCA hosted Naismith’s first game of “basket ball” in history.
He examined the dynamics of many outdoor sports, developing moves and rules that optimized skill and action within a confined space. The centrepiece was a deep, bottomless, hanging basket.
Basketball is 125 years old this December. Now this is a birthday to be celebrated across North America; but, especially in Almonte.
Will Almonte pull out all stops to celebrate their connection to this sport that has brought so much happiness and health to so many? Raise the basket in school gyms, community buildings and on the streets. Every eatery and shop in Almonte and Springfield could celebrate Basket Ball 125.
Americans, Canadians and basketball fans should coalesce to celebrate this great game and great man this December.
Those who are reading about Almonte for the first time, know that she is a stunning town, one of the most beautiful in our nation.
Basketball is 125 years old this December !