EcoHoops: Different By Design
We’re changing the game—one kid at a time. At EcoHoops, it’s all about fun, growth, and helping kids become confident, well-rounded people. Forget the outdated approach—this is a fresh, exciting journey where basketball is just the beginning. Join a movement that puts KIDS FIRST, helping them thrive—on and off the court.
Join the EcoHoops Community
EcoHoops is dedicated to kids' fun, fitness, and mental well-being. Through our play-based basketball program, kids develop skills and learn valuable life lessons while being part of a supportive and inclusive community.
What is EcoHoops?
EcoHoops is a brand-new youth basketball program in Stoney Creek, Ontario, (and Mississauga) offering something truly different for your child. Inspired by Bruce Lee's idea of "flowing like water," we teach kids to adapt and grow with every challenge. We also embrace Carol Dweck's Growth Mindset, where effort and learning from mistakes are celebrated.
At EcoHoops, your child's mental health and wellbeing are our top priorities. We understand that mental health issues are a huge concern nowadays, and we believe youth sports should help—not hurt—kids. Unfortunately, that's not always the case in many programs.
We're the Anti-Elite youth basketball program, meaning we're not just focused on creating the next superstar—though that can still happen! Our main goal is to help kids fall in love with the game in a supportive, pressure-free environment.
But basketball is just the beginning. We teach life skills that help your child thrive on and off the court. Through fun and engaging play, kids learn teamwork, communication, resilience, and problem-solving—skills that last a lifetime. They improve their basketball abilities without even realizing it because they're too busy having fun.
Our program is built on three key ideas:
- Ecological Dynamics: We create environments where kids learn by interacting with their surroundings, helping them adapt and make good decisions.
- The Constraints-Led Approach: We design game-like situations that encourage kids to think, solve problems, and be creative on their own.
- Self-Determination Theory: We nurture your child's inner motivation so they play because they love it, not because they're pressured.
If you're a parent concerned about your child's mental health and want them to gain valuable life skills while improving in basketball, EcoHoops is the place to be. We use modern, science-backed methods—without old-school drills or yelling—to help kids become confident and joyful players.
Don't let your child miss out on this unique opportunity. Join EcoHoops today and watch them grow into the best version of themselves. Spaces are filling up fast, so act now to be part of a program that truly cares about your child's wellbeing and development.
If you're in Stoney Creek or any of the nearby areas and looking for a youth basketball program that puts your child's mental health and personal growth first, EcoHoops is the perfect choice.
Founder
Adrian Sapp
From playing to coaching to being a basketball dad, coach Adrian has been involved in the game from a young age and has never lost his passion for it!
PLAY
The foundation of learning here at EcoHoops.
LEARN
Skills and life lessons come naturally through play and experience.
GROW
Develop confidence, resilience, and a love for the game—on and off the court.
Services
Camps
Jump into the exciting world of EcoHoops, where basketball isn't just a game—it's a place for learning, laughing, and creating memories that last forever. Designed for kids aged 6-16, our camps are based on the idea that play is the best way for kids to learn, grow, and, most importantly, have a ton of fun.
Rep Teams
If you think you're ready to compete against the top competition, we'd love to have you! Join the EcoHoops Rep Teams and be part of a program that’s redefining youth basketball. Let's play, learn, and grow together.
Programs
Jump into EcoHoops Programs, where kids aged 6-16 can learn new skills, make friends, and have a blast. Our programs focus on teaching valuable life lessons while being part of a supportive community. It's all about learning, growing, and having fun together!
Featured Blogs
Unleashing the Power of Play
In the world of sports, especially team sports like soccer and basketball, the ways we approach coaching and skill development can greatly impact a player’s success and their lifelong relationship with the game.
The Power of Growth Mindset
Roll up your sleeves, coaches! It’s time to get down and dirty with some serious, groundbreaking knowledge that’ll change the way you approach youth basketball coaching.
Dear Parents, Let's Talk About Expectations
You’re here because you love your child and want the best for them. You want to see them shine on the basketball court, mastering skills, making those thrilling three-point shots, and dribbling with ease.
FAQs
What's wrong with traditional drills and on-air practices?
Traditional drills often lack the context of the actual game. They can be predictable and don't always challenge the player to adapt to the dynamic situations they'll face during a game. Your methodology, with its roots in ecological dynamics, positions the learning experience within the complexity of the game itself, promoting a deeper understanding and adaptability.
How do players learn the basic skills without repetition?
Repetition is still part of the process, but it's integrated into game-like scenarios. This means players repeat skills within various contexts, enhancing their ability to apply these skills flexibly and creatively during actual play.
Where's the discipline in this method?
Discipline is embedded in the commitment to exploration and problem-solving. Players must stay engaged, make decisions, and continually adapt, which requires a disciplined focus and a proactive attitude towards learning.
Isn't this just letting players play around?
It may seem frivolous, but it's more than what it appears. Players are constantly solving problems, making decisions, and developing skills in a way that's both enjoyable and educational.
How do you track progress without standard drills?
Progress is tracked through performance in game-like conditions. Are the players making better decisions? Are they adapting to new challenges? This method focuses on observable improvements in actual play situations.
What proof do you have that this method works?
Evidence-based research in pedagogy and sports science supports this approach. Additionally, the improvements in player decision-making, adaptability, and skill application during games serve as practical proof.
How do players learn to shoot or defend properly?
By engaging in drills that mimic the variability of real games, players learn to shoot and defend under different conditions, against various opponents, and from multiple angles, which is more effective than shooting or defending in isolation.
Isn't this approach too complex for young players?
Not at all. Young players are incredibly adaptable and learn best through play. This approach capitalizes on their innate ability to learn through exploration and discovery.
Why is enjoyment prioritized over skill development?
Enjoyment isn't prioritized over skill development; they're integrated. When players enjoy the learning process, they're more engaged, which naturally leads to better skill development.
Is this approach suitable for all players?
While it's beneficial for most, it's also flexible enough to be adapted for individual needs. Some players may need more structure at times, and that's okay. The key is to keep the learning process player-centered.
Reach Out Now
Complete the form below to get in touch with us. We're excited to connect with you and provide any assistance you may need.