Parish basketball camp will focus on fundamentals

Brian Lumar speaking at Loyola in 2019.

As is an annual tradition in St. Charles Parish, when Brian Lumar hosts the parish’s Parks and Recreation summer basketball camp next week, all of the lessons taught will revolve around a simple core philosophy – and one that’s led Lumar to plenty of success over the years.

“Play hard, play smart and play together,” Lumar said. “If you live by those three things, you’ll be successful no matter what you do.”

The camp will be held July 23-26 at the Edward Dufresne Community Center, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day. It is open to all boys and girls ages 6-16.

The campers will be grouped according to age and talent level, making it a destination both for beginners and those looking to take another step in their ongoing development.

“It doesn’t matter if you’ve never played together or if you’re real good,” Lumar said. “Everyone will be taught, observed and corrected in all phases of the game. We do as much as we can in a week, and by the end everyone’s had a fabulous time.”

Passing, dribbling, rebounding, defense and shooting are those central phases. Campers will participate in different drills after receiving instruction, while there will also be competitions to keep things lively and fresh throughout the week – five on five and three on three games and free throw competitions among the examples.

The camp has been held since the opening of the community center, and Lumar has experience conducting basketball camps extending long before then.

He brings plenty of knowledge to the table, having excelled both as a player and a coach. The Hahnville High principal is enshrined in the Loyola University Hall of Fame and led Hahnville High to two state finals as head basketball coach, one of those seasons netting him state Coach of the Year honors in Class 5A.

Whether on the court or in the classroom, Lumar enjoys spreading his knowledge to the next generation.

“I love teaching kids,” he said. “I had the opportunity to play and find success. What people don’t always realize is it’s not always about who runs the fastest or jumps the highest, but who’s able to be fundamentally sound in all phases. That’s what can really get you over the hump.”

Fee for the camp is $110 pre-registered and $125 for walk-ups. Those interested may register online at the St. Charles Parish Recreation website under the heading “camps.” For other questions, contact Brian Lumar at (504) 931-8604.

 

 

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