Saint Lucia

Basketball Coaching Volunteer Project in St Lucia, Castries

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Tour ID:121297
Ages:18 - 80
People on trip:8
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Arrival:Hewannora International Airport (airport code UVF)
Prices are Per Person

Coach basketball to children from the most deprived areas of St. Lucia who otherwise would not have the opportunity to play and train in a structured environment. Impart your skills and knowledge of the sport to make an impact on young lives.

Castries, St Lucia

Please note it is possible to come for more than a 2 week trip and most will come between a 4 and 8 week duration.

Basketball in St. Lucia
Basketball is a popular sport among young St. Lucian’s and the NBA is followed across the island however as a domestic sport it is a recipient less funding and lacks structure compared to the other popular sports on the island. Basketball clubs and leagues exist on the island but there is very little focus on youth development and few youth teams. Female participation in the game is low, with a lot of school provisions going toward netball there is a lot less opportunities for young girls to play basketball. The focus of this placement is to give more children that more opportunities to play the sport who would not get the chance otherwise.

Your Basketball Volunteer Placement
The majority of coaching sessions will take place as in-school and after-school sessions in primary and secondary school within poor communities in St. Lucia. Sessions will be inclusive, trying to get as many children participating in basketball as possible with an emphasis on fun.

Our partner charity on the island runs a female empowerment project in St. Lucia, to support this as part of your placement you will coach their girls basketball team developing their skills and confidence at the same time. We are also linked to local clubs where by you will get the chance to do some more competitive coaching at a higher level, a chance to impart some tactical knowledge and coach a team towards a league championship!

Your Basketball Coaching Role
When coaching within local teams, it is up to you as to how much responsibility wish to take on in the sessions. Volunteers will typically be placed within young teams where you will be able to get alongside your players and simply give them the chance to play as a team. By introducing the fundamentals, that you probably take for granted, you will soon see the them improve their game. We want volunteers to get involved with their teams and their placement as much as possible. You will have guidance and support from the in-country team, as well as local coaches, who will encourage you to take part in training sessions and matches. You will then be able to introduce more of your own ideas and organise your own coaching programmes and possibly even tournaments for your team. However, volunteers should remember that there isn’t a high expectation to produce world class players! We just want you to make the game fun and enjoyable, whilst giving the players the sense of belonging that all teams value.

Sports Summer Camps in St. Lucia
Our summer camps in St. Lucia run for 6 weeks from mid July to mid August. These camps are run by our charity partners and focus on: teaching basic skills of the sports, developing interpersonal skills, encourage healthy lifestyle, to combat prevalent social issues in the community like drugs and gang culture. Volunteer sports coaches are required to assist with all sports.

CRB/DBS (Criminal Records Bureau) Check
It is advised that participants complete a CRB/DBS (Criminal Records Bureau) check in order to take part in this project. We can provide this service for you at an additional cost because some people may already have one that is valid (please get in touch for more details).

Gap Year or Career Break Basketball Project in St. Lucia
Coaching basketball in your gap year is the best way to combine a sports gap year with a volunteer gap year. A basketball gap year in St. Lucia will offer you adventurous gap year travel, exciting basketball opportunities and a truly unforgettable gap year experience.

From the below arrival dates please choose a trip with a range that means you are with us for an even amount of weeks. This helps us manage airport transfers and also helps with the management of the projects. For example, you could come for a 6 or 8 week trip but not a 5 or 7 week trip.

Start Dates 2025
31st Jan – 2 to 30 weeks
14th Feb – 2 to 28 weeks
28th Feb – 2 to 26 weeks
14th Mar – 2 to 24 weeks
28th Mar – 2 to 22 weeks
11th Apr – 2 to 20 weeks
25th Apr – 2 to 18 weeks
9th May – 2 to 16 weeks
23rd May – 2 to 14 weeks
6th Jun – 2 to 12 weeks
20th Jun – 2 to 10 weeks
4th Jul – 4 to 8 weeks
18th Jul – 4 to 6 weeks
1st Aug – 4 weeks
15th Aug – 2 weeks

Start Dates 2026
30th Jan – 2 to 30 weeks
13th Feb – 2 to 28 weeks
27th Feb – 2 to 26 weeks
13th Mar – 2 to 24 weeks
27th Mar – 2 to 22 weeks
10th Apr – 2 to 20 weeks
24th Apr – 2 to 18 weeks
8th May – 2 to 16 weeks
22nd May – 2 to 14 weeks
5th Jun – 2 to 12 weeks
19th Jun – 2 to 10 weeks
3rd Jul – 4 to 8 weeks
17th Jul – 4 to 6 weeks
31st Jul – 4 weeks
14th Aug – 2 weeks

Note 1: Dates are subject to change.

Note 2: It is important that you arrive on published arrival dates to help with operational management and induction. In St Lucia this tends to be a Friday. There maybe an additional fee if you still require airport collection outside our normal times. Approx. GBP £60 each way.

Visa
British Nationals will not require a visa to enter St Lucia for up to 90 days. If you are travelling over 42 days (6 weeks) then you will have to provide travel details on arrival, to clear customs. All the details of the process will be explained once you have booked your trip.

For visits longer than 90 days we will arrange extensions for you.

Equipment Donation for St Lucia
We are dedicated to sustainable development. This is why part of the fee you pay goes towards buying decent equipment for beneficiary organisations in St Lucia. You will often use this equipment during your project and it is always left with the community when you leave. In some cases, an equipment donation may not be appropriate so a financial contribution is made instead.

Social Life in St Lucia
While you are abroad to make a difference it is still important to enjoy yourself and unwind. St Lucia boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, white sands and blue seas! We will often spend the days on the beach before training, and will organise events such as bbq’s or beach games. There are also a number of bars and clubs off the main beach. Then there is the weekly street party in Gros Islet where the roads are closed, speakers are rolled out and people party under the stars.

Travel and Adventure in St Lucia
With this project you get an excursion to world famous Marigot Bay, home to the set of the Dr Doolitttle film. Included is your return transport and water taxis across the bay. You can relax on a private beach or take a short rainforest walk, or get a drink in some of the best bars and restaurants on the Island.

You will be encouraged to explore St Lucia during your free time so you can sample some of its breath-taking sights and meet some of the Caribbean’s friendliest people. The capital, Castries, is home to numerous markets selling a wonder of goods and comes alive when the cruise ships dock. For bars and clubs we recommend Rodney Bay, the home of the vast majority of the hotels. This is also home to the main shopping mall. There are also the famous Piton Mountains which are located in the south of the island and are well worth a visit. You can also climb them if you are feeling ambitious. There is also the Sulphur Springs the ‘World’s only drive in volcano’! The springs are formed from water running through a volcano, which heats the water while the sulphur turns the water black. You can bathe in the water, which is reputed to make you live forever. St Lucia is home to many rainforests which can be explored in a number of ways such as on bikes, quad bikes and zip lining!

Accommodation
Accommodation is based in a shared house with dorm-style rooms and all bed linen is provided. The accommodation is a large open plan guest house, only a few minutes walk from the beach, making it the perfect base for a Caribbean adventure! There’s a large kitchen, sitting room and WIFI is available. Each bedroom has a shower and toilet and there are also laundry facilities.

Food
Breakfast is included on a help yourself basis. Lunch and dinner can be prepared in groups or individually as there is a supermarket close by.

Airport Pick-Up
We will arrange transport from the airport on arrival in St Lucia so long as it falls on the start date. Any arrival times outside this will incur an additional charge.

Training
Full project induction and local orientation given on arrival.

Support
Pre-departure help and advice; Local in-country team; 24 hour emergency support.

Donation
Part of your fee maybe used to buy decent equipment for the project and community you work with. We also encourage you to bring any extra equipment that you are happy to give away but this will need to fall within your personal weight allowance with the airline you travel with.

Flights; Lunch or dinner, Travel insurance; Visas; Vaccinations; Spending money; In-country personal travel; Soft drinks and alcohol; Extra activities not on itinerary.

You will be met on arrival. Full details will be provided once you have booked your trip with us.

Preferred Duration
This is a 2 to 12 week trip but we’d prefer you to come for as long as possible to make the most out of the project and the relationships you will build. You can also come for longer and we’ll consider discounts for the commitment shown.

Typical Hours
This will vary depending on weekly fixtures and sports events but as a guide use the following; Weekdays – Sessions will take place after school between 2:00pm – 4:30pm (subject to the school). Saturdays – Sessions will take place in the morning from 10:00am – 12:00pm. You are free to travel and explore the island during the days, or just spend it on one of the great golden sand beaches. There is also a street party in Gros Islet every Friday.

Pre-requisites
You need to know about the game of basketball. You will get support from our in-country team but it would be helpful if you came away with some basketball coaching drills. With all sports coaching we like you to be confident to be able to support the projects and run sessions with us.

Ideal For
Basketball lovers, people wanting to travel with their basketball, basketball coaching and playing holidays, basketball sports summer camps, student holidays, basketball coaching opportunities, gap year students, university students and career breakers who love basketball.

Suitable for ages 18 to 80

Most participants are between 18 and 25, so please be aware of this. We do welcome older people because of the value and experience they bring to the community.

What is the minimum age restriction?

You need to be 18 or over at the time you arrive in St Lucia. Those on an internship are usually 20 or older since needing some relevant experience to participant in the programme.

Are meals included in this trip?

Breakfast is included in your project price. This typically consists of cereal, toast, eggs and local fruits. There is sufficient storage in the kitchen to store your own food. Some people like to cook independently, others in a group and this is usually worked out once you are in-country and have settled with the group.

What accommodation is provided?

All accommodation is based in a shared house with dorm-style rooms with air conditioning. The accommodation is a large open plan guest house, only a few minutes walk from the beach, making it the perfect base for a Caribbean adventure!

The house has all the required facilities including a fully equipped kitchen, large balcony for dining and socialising and living room with TV and WiFi. There are shower and toilet facilities per every two bedrooms and an additional toilet in the communal area.

Are there laundry facilities available at the accommodation?

Yes, there is a washing machine and ironing board in the house and a weekly laundry service is included.

Can I book a private room?

This is completely dependent on availability at the time as there are only 7 rooms in the house. There is usually an additional charge of GBP £135 per week for this. Contact us to check availability for when you would like to come.

Where can I store valuables at the accommodation?

There is no safe in the house but each bedroom can be locked from the outside. We advise you lock any valuables in your suitcase. Coordinators live on the property which means that any problems that arise can be dealt with immediately. Staff are on site throughout the day and security is on the gate during the night so chances of theft is limited.

What amenities are nearby?

The accommodation is located on one of the main roads in Castries so there will always be buses to take you to the main city, local attractions or bars and clubs at the Rodney Bay strip. There are two of the island’s best beaches just a few minutes walk from the house, as well as a supermarket for all guest needs.

How many hours a day will I be on the project?

Weekdays – sessions will normally take place after school between 14:00 – 19:00 (subject to the school and programme).
Saturdays – sessions will take place in the morning from 10:00 – 12:00. You are welcome to travel and explore the island during the days, or just spend it on one of the great golden sandy beaches.

Excursions usually take place on Friday and Sunday; there is also a street party in Gros Islet every Friday.

Will I run the class or assist in the teaching/coaching activities?

This depends on your confidence, experience and the availability of local support. The in-country team will work around your comfort and ability and provide training where required.

What experience do I need?

We do not require you to have any particular coaching/teaching badges or qualifications, just an understanding of the game and a passion to help out on the project! You will receive a coaching manual on arriving in St Lucia and will be working alongside experienced coaches who will always be on hand to advise you and support your sessions. Those on internships with us will usually come with a bit more experience and focus on what it is they are wanting to achieve whilst away.

What support will I receive in country?

You will receive a wide range of support whilst in country, including a full time in country project coordinator, and local coaches at the project site.

What can I do in my free time?

There’s loads to keep you busy in your free time in St Lucia and our in-country coordinators will be on hand to point you in the right direction and book extra excursions for you. These activities include a Rain Forest Adventures Aerial Tram, botanical gardens, sulphur springs, paint-balling and zip lining. (please note these are an additional cost and not included in your trip price).

When can I arrive?

You need to arrive at Hewanorra airport on an allotted project start date where you will be met by one of our friendly in country team and taken to the accommodation to settle in. This is always on a Friday. If you arrive after the start date you can either make your own way to the accommodation or arrange collection with us but there will be an additional charge for this.

When should I book my departure?

Your return flight should be booked on the project end date, a Friday. Transport back to the airport is included in the project price.

Is transport included?

Transport to and from the project is included in the project price. Transport for extra excursions can also be arranged with the in country team for an additional cost.

Will I need a visa?

Citizens for a large list of countries, including the UK do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days. Please get in contact if you are unsure whether you require a visa or not. You will also be given contact details and address of where you will be staying when you book as you may need these for your immigration card on arrival.

Will I need vaccinations?

There are no specific vaccinations required to enter St Lucia. However, we strongly recommend you visit a travel nurse before a trip in case boosters are required.

What is the climate like in St Lucia?

Being a Caribbean Island you can expect a lot of hot and humid weather throughout the year. As a tropical island, weather can be unpredictable and brief showers are fairly common. Due to its situation on the equator, St Lucia does not have well defined seasons. There is, however a rainy season which generally falls between June and November but these don’t tend to effect our work too much.

Can I bring donations to my project?

Yes, all donations are greatly appreciated. However, we will not assist in the transport of donations to St. Lucia so you will have to make sure to check luggage allowance before travelling. Some airlines will offer an extra bag for this but contact must be made with the airline against the booking prior to your flight to avoid problems when checking in bags at the airport.

Can I play sport whilst in St Lucia?

We have great contacts with a number of local clubs and teams, so you will have opportunities to play and train if you want.

What access to gyms are there?

There’s a wide variety of gyms available on the island and close to our accommodation, all with short term memberships available.

We tend to use Vel’s Fitness Centre which is the closest and one of the most affordable. It’s basic but has everything including cardio machines, weight machines and free weights.

There are lots of alternative options available, and local to us such as:

1) BFiT758 – CrossFit & Functional Training gym with a wide range of group sessions, personal training, and open gym times.

2) Harbor Club St. Lucia, Curio Collection by Hilton is a high end modern gym, with all the latest equipment.

There’s plenty others too so it shouldn’t be difficult to find somewhere to fit your goals and budget.

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