Wildcats star engages youth

The captain of the Perth Wildcats received a warm welcome from the Warralong and Marble Bar communities last week when he met with youth to offer leadership advice and basketball workshops.

Damian Martin visited the region last Monday and Tuesday thanks to an Atlas Iron Helping Hands Grant after he was approached by Marble Bar police.

Marble Bar police officer-in-charge Sergeant Todd D’Souza said the trip was set up to acknowledge the good behaviour and positive actions of the community’s youth.

Sgt D’Souza said Martin was a great choice of celebrity for the youth, who turned out in large numbers to engage with the athlete. “The kids were fully engaged,” he said

“Even the adults ... we had around 25-30 parents and adults outside the basketball courts watching and taking photos.

“We’ve been working really hard with the elders to keep the community clean and safe and as a result have seen less antisocial youth behaviour.

He said the trip was also a good opportunity for Martin, who learned more about indigenous culture and the Pilbara.

Police said they hoped to make the visits an annual event.

Marble Bar police have also started a 12-week program at the local primary school oval to engage children in leadership teamwork and teach them the skills of the sport every Wednesday.