LEARNING the game of basketball from a young age is one of the main ingredients important to the future of Port Macquarie basketball.

Every year they hold their "Aussie Hoops" program - Basketball Australia's official junior program for juniors aged five to 12 years.

Aussie Hoops enables participants of all abilities the opportunity to learn basketball in a structured, inclusive and safe environment, developing physical fitness, social skills and an understanding of the sport while having fun.

Schools liaison officer Graham Jessop said it was a good program which had been promoted well by Basketball Australia.

"It seems to attract kids that want to play the game of basketball and who want to train hard and that's what we want," he said.

The program focuses on the basic skills of the sport as well as ensuring the juniors get a better understanding of it.

Basketball Australia re-launched this national program in 2014 announcing a refreshed brand strategy and implementation process.

"It's the second year we've done it and we're also using the program to develop coaches as well because without them you don't have a game," Jessop said.

"The kids turn up wide-eyed and eager and then we hope that flows down into younger brothers and sisters over time."

PMBA will run an eight-week program at the Port Macquarie Indoor Stadium for the first term of 2016.

The sessions are held between 3.45pm until 4.30pm each Tuesday afternoon with separate programs and courts for various ages and skill levels.

"If you put in the practice you get results and the program shows kids can be taught,"?Jessop said.

The cost is $85 for all new players which includes an exciting participant's pack with their own ball, singlet and backpack.

Returning players from the 2015 program will have a discounted cost of $65.

Nationally accredited coaches will deliver the program with the assistance of our experienced junior representative players.

For a comprehensive overview of the new Aussie Hoops program, and to register your child, you can visit the new Aussie Hoops website at www.aussiehoops.com.au or contact Andrew Lister on 0406 316 228.