Teenagers who are skilled at ‘shooting hoops’ could soon be aiming for the stars now that a basketball development centre has been set up in the Vale of Glamorgan.

Following a series of trials in local schools, the most talented boys aged 13 to 15 have been brought together to develop their potential further at weekly training sessions at the Cadoxton Sports Hall in Barry.

The centre has been set up by Andrew Leftey, the head of boys PE at St Richard Gwyn Catholic High School, and Ben Williams, one of the Vale of Glamorgan Council’s 5x60 Officers.

Andrew, who is also involved with Cardiff Celts Basketball Club and coaches the International under 18 squad, said: "There are a lot of boys who enjoy playing basketball casually in the Vale so we wanted to give them opportunities to receive professional coaching in an organised setup. They will make progress by training alongside other talented players and will hopefully go on to continue playing basketball regularly to a good standard."

The squad will be playing fixtures against teams from around Wales and the south west, and there are hopes that the age groups can be expanded next season to allow more slam-dunking youngsters the chance to shine.

The new centre ties in perfectly with Ben’s work as a 5x60 Officer. The Welsh Assembly Government funded scheme, which is run by the Sports Council for Wales and supported locally by the Vale Council, aims to get youngsters taking part in 60 minutes of extra-curricular physical activity, five times a week.

Ben, who is part of the council’s sports and play development team, said: "The 5x60 scheme has been successful in getting young people physically active since its launch in the Vale in 2007. The new basketball development centre is a perfect example of the scheme’s progression, where we are not only offering doorstep opportunities for young people to participate in the schools but also the opportunity to compete at a higher level."

You can find out more about the new Vale of Glamorgan basketball development centre, and the 5x60 scheme by calling Ben Williams on 07725829801 or by going online at www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk/5x60