It’s more than just a game for the 12-year-old from Riccarton. Basketball provides a social outlet for Joshua and he can often be seen practicing his moves at Cobham Intermediate.
But living on Picton Ave means Joshua has to walk nearly 50min to practice.
So he has written to the Halswell-Hornby-Riccarton Community Board to get a basketball court installed in Picton Reserve.
In a heart-warming letter, Joshua describes basketball as having a “magical power” to bring people together.
Joshua has only been interested in basketball for the past year, but he has a real passion for sport, playing cricket and rugby for his school and clubs.
He is due to start at Christchurch Boys’ High next year, and Joshua’s goal is to be selected to represent the school in basketball.
His mother Debra supported Joshua’s letter and is happy he took the time to write to the board and make a difference to his community.
She said the closest basketball court at Wharenui School is cracked and run-down, and it would be ideal to have a court nearby.
Board chairman Mike Mora said it was lovely to see a handwritten letter from a young person bringing their concerns to the community board.
The letter has been passed on to city council staff for consideration.
