Basketball as a Mission promotes the merging of cultures by choosing a diverse group of volunteers. Coaches come from a variety of backgrounds; they range in age, ethnicity, beliefs and customs. It is not required to have expert knowledge in basketball or fluency in Spanish, however one aspect remains mandatory – Basketball as a Mission coaches must be passionate about helping children.

Coaching Duties:

▪ Fundraise the required minimum that is set by Basketball as a Mission. This is determined by the cost of travel and accommodations.

▪ Collect and travel with gear for donation (including shoes, shorts, shirts, undergarments, basketballs, prizes and equipment).

▪ Organize and distribute donations at the beginning of each day.

▪ Direct basketball drills including dribbling, shooting, passing, defense and strategy .

▪ Conduct agility and conditioning drills.

▪ Lead and teach a variety of games.

Coaches must be prepared to adapt to different living environments. Basketball as  Mission coordinates with the local churches and coaches usually stay in convents. Furthermore, depending on the location, accommodations may not have electricity or clean water. At the end of each day all volunteers will be asked to reflect, which may or may not be a religious practice. No one will be forced to do anything that makes them uncomfortable, but there is a prayer at every meal and at reflection each night.

Coaches play an integral role in shaping each camper’s experience. They unite the community and build camaraderie and friendships between each other and the locals. Coaches are expected to maintain a high level of energy throughout the camp, be outgoing, and be willing to adjust to unfamiliar or challenging situations. Most importantly, coaches are expected to conduct oneself with the utmost respect of the hosts, and in alignment with the goals of the mission.