Neptune Sports Inclusion basketball team coaches love the feeling they get from working with their players

Kevin Dineen and Ian O’Brien, who coach the Neptune Basketball Club Inclusion team are really enjoying their roles as they find it’s an incredibly rewarding experience. 

Both of them had to adapt their coaching skills and drills to meet the needs of each child. 

They want to ensure everyone can actively participate in the sport. 

It's amazing to see how every child, regardless of their ability, can develop their skills, feel a sense of belonging, and become part of the team. The focus on inclusion is central to what they do, and watching the young athletes grow in confidence and enjoy the game is truly fulfilling to all in the club. 

It's about more than just basketball, it's about creating a space where everyone feels valued and included.

“The most rewarding part of my involvement has been setting up the very first basketball tournament in Ireland specifically for children with additional needs and physical impairments,” Kevin said.

“It was an incredible achievement to bring together teams from Galway, Dublin, Cork, and Limerick to participate in an event that had never been done before. 

"Seeing the confidence, joy and sense of accomplishment on the faces of the children was beyond anything I could have imagined. 

"The tournament provided them with a platform to showcase their abilities, build self-esteem, and experience the thrill of competition in an inclusive environment. 

"The smiles and excitement of the kids, and knowing how much it meant to them and their families, made all the hard work worth it and reinforced why this program is so important.

“Looking ahead, our plans for the team are centered around continued growth and development, both on and off the court. 

"We as a club want to ensure that we keep fostering an environment where every player, regardless of ability, feels included and valued. 

"I'm excited to introduce more adaptive drills and strategies that allow each child to thrive, while also building their confidence and sense of belonging.

“If clubs are thinking of setting up a program like this, my biggest piece of advice is to go for it, because the rewards are beyond anything you could imagine. 

"Start by breaking down the process into manageable steps, gather the right resources, reach out to teachers, and get skilled volunteers on board. 

"You will need to adapt lessons, modify activities, and focus on building a supportive and inclusive environment. 

"Patience is key as every child’s journey is unique and it takes time to see progress. However, trust me the smiles and confidence you'll witness will be worth every bit of effort. 

"Most importantly, do it because you want to give back and make a difference for children with additional needs, as with the passion and commitment for inclusion, you'll create something truly magical,” Kevin added.

Liam Desmond, who plays with the Neptune Inclusion team is really enjoying his experience with the famous Blackpool club and looks forward to meeting his friends and teammates every Friday evening.

“I really love being on the team because it feels like everyone is included, and we all get to play,” Liam said.

“The coaches make the drills fun, and they help me learn new skills. 

"It’s nice to be part of a team where everyone gets a chance to try, no matter what they can do. I also like making new friends within the club and they all make me feel like I belong.

“The coaches are really nice and always help me when I need it. If I find something hard to understand they show me how to do it in a way that makes sense to me. 

"They don’t rush us, and if I need more time they’re always very patient. Sometimes, they change the drills so everyone can try and I feel good when I can do it. 

"It makes me feel proud!

“I love running around and playing with my teammates. 

"It’s fun to shoot hoops, and when I score, everyone cheers, which makes me feel happy. 

"I also like learning new things, like how to pass or dribble better. Even if I don’t get it right away’s, I know I’ll get better because all the coaches believe in me.

“It’s not just about winning or being the best, it’s about having fun and doing my best. 

"I feel proud to be part of a team where everyone is treated equally, and we all support each other. 

"It makes me feel really good inside,” Liam added.

NEPTUNE SPORTS INCLUSION TEAM: Liam Desmond, Jamie Cagney, James Hunter, Dean Murphy, Jayden Sheehan, Fionn Long, Rian O’Connor, Matt Stanton, Karim Guermi, Leo King, Danny O’Keeffe.