The Mini Basketball class ends the first session with a group cheer.

For Love of the Game

Photographs by Kathy De La Torre

There were no slam-dunkers on the court when 4- to 6-year-olds gathered last week for the first session of Mini Basketball at Fisher Middle School. But what the budding b-ball enthusiasts lacked in size and finesse, they more than matched in enthusiasm.

The eight-session class is one of the winter programs offered by the Los Gatos- Saratoga Department of Community Education and Recreation. Instructor is Larry Wilkins of the Just Play Sports Academy, which contracts with the Recreation Department. The class focuses on getting children interested in basketball. Emphasis is on positive motivation and fun.


Daniel Kim, 5, tells Coach Larry Wilkins he needs a time-out.





Zahin Helal, 5, practices dribbling during the Mini Basketball session.





Coach Pat Rubalcava calls roll during the first meeting of the Mini Basketball class.




Coach Larry Wilkins holds his hand against the backboard and 4-year-old Jake Ricci of Los Gatos aims for it.

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