The local basketball governing body (FERWABA) will, from June 7-10, organise a scouting camp in the United States to trace young diaspora players who can play for Rwanda’s basketball team. Meant to be an annual exercise, this year’s event will take place in Dallas, Texas, in partnership with the Rwanda Diaspora with the support of the Ministry of Sports, the Rwandan Embassy in the USA and the high commission of Rwanda in Canada. A statement from Ferwaba indicates the event is aimed at identifying and selecting talented Rwandan basketball players, boys and girls, aged between 13 and 19 residing in the USA and Canada. ALSO READ: Basketball: Rwanda steps up scouting of foreign-based youngsters to beef up national team “Through skill assessments, scrimmages, and evaluations conducted by experienced coaches, the camp aims to pinpoint players with the potential to represent Rwanda in international competitions and elevate the country's basketball program,” the statement reads in part. Additionally, the camp seeks to provide a fun, educational experience for more than 70 participants, enhancing their skills, fostering teamwork, and creating lasting connections to their home country. Selected players will have the opportunity to join the U16 and U18 national teams. During the camp, the federation will discuss with parents about the importance of obtaining Rwandan national identification documents (Passport or ID) for their children before turning 16, as mandated by FIBA rules for eligibility to play for national teams and with the support of the embassies, the documents can be obtained more easily. A formal communication has been sent to Rwanda Embassies in the USA and Canada respectively. Interest in participation will be received from the parents or guardians of potential participants and will be screened by the technical team to come up with the final list of participants. Technical staff from Rwanda will include three coaches and one coordinator, while supporting staff from the US will consist of five volunteers, including a nurse. FERWABA will oversee setting selection criteria, developing the technical program, coordinating activities, and covering organizational fees. The US diaspora will contribute to participant selection, sending invitations to parents, providing volunteer support, and conducting follow-ups. Parents will be responsible for covering transportation costs for participants.
