Hoopin’ it up for the community

Doug Tabbert

The carpeted gym at the Oak View Community Center erupted with

shrieks and squeals of excitement. It served as the setting for Hoop

It Up, a basketball clinic for third-, fourth- and fifth-grade girls

at Oak View Elementary School. Every Friday 43 girls, most who are

new to the game, are taught the basics by older girls who play high

school basketball and volunteer their time.

“They are a an outstanding group of girls who want to give back to

the community,” said Karen Catabijan, principal of Oak View.

The clinic is Natalie Villasenor’s, senior project. The

enterprising 18-year-old obtained funds for prizes, snacks and

T-shirts from Oak View, K-mart, McDonalds, and Vons.

Natalie and her teammates won the Sunset League title this year

and came together once more to help her put on the clinic. Natalie is

thrilled with the enthusiasm shown by her peers.

Courtney Smith, a senior at Edison High School is reserved and

effective on the court, Natalie said, but has proven to be outspoken

and commanding in her newfound role as a leader.

“We help them learn that just like boys, they can play sports

too,” said Dana Leever, 18-year-old senior at Mater Dei, who hopes

some of them will continue playing. “Basketball gave me something to

do besides just school work, it’s an outlet.”

The children enjoyed it thoroughly.

“The hardest part of basketball is shooting because I’m short,”

said 10-year-old Karina Cruz, a fifth-grader.

Nevertheless, she routinely launched at the sweet spot on the

backboard and drop for two points.

“They’re good girls and they are willing to learn,” said Coach Eva

Camarena, a junior and shooting guard at Edison.

Strategy, fun and practice are emphasized in order to improve the

new player’s experience both on and off the court. Their coaches are

banking on it.