Stories of Change: William Peter

Suva (Fiji) - William Peter has been actively volunteering in Basketball Fiji's (BF) Basketball for Good programs since 2017 and it's helped him expand his role in the country culminating with a FIBA U15 Oceania Championship head coaching stint for Fiji.

Peter started his work volunteer work with the Bula Hoops clinic two years ago and has since been named the Head Coordinator of the program.

"First time I became part of Basketball for Good was with the Bula Hoops from there I also helped out in the Hoops For Health because we needed more coaches to help in their other programs," shared Peter.

"There is something special in seeing the kids smile and enjoy the game of basketball," he added.

The youthful coach shared that his passion for the game of basketball started at a young age and his desire for volunteer work began as early as his secondary school years.

"I love basketball, so I've always done a lot of volunteer work even during my high school days," Peter said. "I have been volunteering since 2012 and saw additional opportunities with BF to expand my knowledge in coaching and also help the sport grow at the grassroots level."

Bula Hoops is an Australian aid initiative implemented by Basketball Fiji on behalf of the Australian Government in cooperation of FIBA. The program focuses on teaching the fundamentals of basketball to primary students while also adding an educational health component to the clinics.

The National Federation selected Peter for their U15 team because of his work and familiarity with the players of the team.

"I was extremely happy and grateful for their invitation. It was my first time coaching at the national level and I believe a huge part of my selection is my work with the kids and their trust in me. I already knew the players and it was an honor for me and my team to represent Fiji in the international stage."- William Peter

 Peter is appreciative of what basketball has given him and how it has given direction and purpose to his life.

"I' feel fulfilled working with kids and teaching them the game, also values outside of basketball. I am grateful to Basketball Fiji and the B4G program for opening the doors for me. I want to keep on helping BF and try to be of assistance in any way I can," said the University of the South Pacific graduate.

The Fijian native has stated his commitment to helping grow the sport in his country and envisions the island nation to be one of the best basketball countries in the Pacific.

"Our Basketball for Good programs has helped grow the interest of the sport with females. Our female participants in the last 2-3 years have grown a lot and the level of competition has improved," said Peter.

"We are also discovering a lot of talented young players, hopefully, we can set the course for a bright foundation for our basketball future with our upcoming players," he concluded.

 FIBA