Burlington's Batang PBA Basketball Clinic 2011

I don't know if I should call it a lucky day.  You see, we were supposed to go out-of-town that particular day. I had actually turned down three invitations because I knew I would not able to make it. However, at the last minute, the out-of-town trip was postponed and I had to scrap off our daily schedule to accommodate other stuff we needed to do. I had to call someone to ask if Kyle's basketball clinic schedule could be moved on another free date. We were turned down initially, saying that the list had been full and there are no more slots available. So I had to move heaven and earth, pray hard and put my sentiments on my Facebook status that says something like this: "I hope things would turn out into our favor, Lord Please?".  It had taken quite a while, we were asked to wait. And we waited for like seemed hours before the Lord finally answered our prayers. The lady at the registration finally said yes, we could enter the playing arena even if Kyle had originally been scheduled for next Saturday's session.

Young boys listen to the instructions given.

This basketball clinic wasn't Kyle's first time though. He was fortunate enough to be included in last year's session as well. Last year, Kyle's coach was none other than Norman Black, with a few help from Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) basketball players from San Miguel team, Dondon Hontiveros (he was still with San Miguel last year) and another player whose name I had totally forgotten. This year, Burlington Batang PBA Clinic had former Shell basketball player Ronnie Magsanoc as coach. Ginebra San Miguel players JC Intal and Ronald Tubig assisted Coach Ronnie this time.

Kyle looking sleepy while waiting for his turn.

 It was truly fun to see young boys and a girl (yes, the clinic is also open for girls) try their hand to play the sport most Filipinos love. The little ones doesn't even know what to do with the ball, whether he'd pass them up to another team mate or which basketball ring it would have to be shoot. The audience were laughing and most parents find it cute.

Coach Ronnie Magsanoc and assistant giving instructions. The only girl in the batch is shown here.

Coach Ronnie had given them all a tennis ball, to warm up their hands towards dribbling. Then they had the actual warm up exercises such as scrimmages and ball dribbling the zigzag way. They also did a lot of fun stuff on court. Parents and spectators cheered from the outside with camera clicks right here and there. Others even contented themselves to the netted area where they managed to have their autographs and photo opportunity.

Warm up exercises everyone!

Kyle trying to dribble the ball with one hand.

Personally speaking, I am not a huge fan of basketball. My last basketball hero was Alvin Patrimonio of Purefoods team, now retired. That's how old I am now. But I am also aware of the likes of Ateneo's Chris Tiu whom Kyle absolutely adore. He's not only good in basketball, he's also intellectually smart according to one of his Ateneo professors whom I was able to talk to.

Coach Ronnie Magsanoc and Kyle

But I like getting Kyle into sports. It keeps him busy, active and he enjoys adrenaline rush. I wish he could learn more basketball. Too bad, the basketball clinic only lasts for a day. I wish I had the money to enroll him in a formal basketball school. But since I don't have budget for that, I make sure to have him listed in sports oriented activities such as these. By the end of the clinic, Kyle was able to gain new friends and he's looking forward to attend the next clinic soon.

Kyle with Ginebra's JC Intal.

Kyle with Ginebra's Ronald Tubig.

All these goodies were given for FREE.

With a souvenir shirt comes souvenir signatures from these players. 

Burlington's Batang PBA clinic is open to the public. Kids ages 7 to 12 years old are encouraged to join. All you need to do is present a receipt or proof of purchase of any Burlington product worth 100Php and have your kids name pre-registered by calling the PBA or Burlington office.