Sign Up Now for Spring Cane Nation
This spring, the University of Miami men’s basketball team becomes heroes for kids during Cane Nation, a once-in-a-lifetime experience providing boys in grades K-6 the unique opportunity to interact with Hurricane basketball players in a true basketball setting.
“When I was a youngster, I loved following college basketball,” said Coach Jim Larrañaga. “It was a real thrill for me to meet college players. They were my heroes. Cane Nation provides that for youth in the Miami area.”
Cane Nation was started in Miami five years ago by Larrañaga, who wanted to give kids an opportunity to get excited about the Hurricanes, the players that are going to be their coaches and basketball in general.
“We want to provide boys the unique opportunity to interact with our University of Miami basketball players in a true basketball setting,” added Larrañaga. “The kids will have so much fun they will be talking about it for years to come.”
Cane Nation will be held from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the University of Miami Field House April 6, 11, 13, 18 and 20th – for boys in grades K-6. Cost of the camp is $250.
At Cane Nation participants are divided into age groups and evaluated by UM players on the first day of camp. From there, UM players – acting as coaches – draft their own teams and the young campers are sent their draft status and signing bonus in the mail.
After teams are formed, each day of Cane Nation involves a session of personalized instruction to learn some of the fundamentals of the sport, followed by three competitive games. During player meetings, the staff also puts an emphasis on academic, social and athletic growth and development. Each Cane Nation participant will receive a Cane Nation T-shirt and shorts, as well as the opportunity to spend quality time with our University of Miami men’s basketball team. The UM players interact with the Cane Nation participants at camp, but also throughout the season, at games and in the community.
“Cane Nation gives us an opportunity for the Miami players to coach these kids, who they look up to so much,” said Adam Fisher, camp director and assistant coach. “Coach L is great in giving back to the community.”
Space is limited for the Cane Nation and registration will be done on a first-come, first-served basis, so sign up now by clicking here. For more information e-mail CaneNation@miami.edu or call 305-284-2680.
