How Sports Help Teens Find Their Place and Purpose

It’s more than just a court, it’s a symbol of hope, unity, and opportunity. In Cayo North, a brand-new basketball facility is turning heads and changing lives. From slam dunks to second chances, this story shows how one court is helping young Belizeans find their purpose, on and off the hardwood. Here’s Isani Cayetano.

 

Isani Cayetano, Reporting

There’s a new buzz in the air in Cayo North—and it’s not just the sound of sneakers squeaking on fresh hardwood. A brand-new basketball court has officially opened, and it’s already proving to be more than just a place to play. But beyond the slam dunks and three-pointers, this project carries a deeper message: sports can change lives.

 

Karim Juan

“Your belief in the power of sports and community has helped to provide a safe and inspiring space for our athletes. To the players, fans, and sports enthusiasts, this court is for you. We hope this space fosters your passion for the game and serves as a foundation for future successes.  As we step on to this court tonight, let us remember that it represents more than just basketball. It symbolizes the community’s unity, our commitment to youth development and the belief that together we can achieve great things.”

 

Basketball courts like this one are more than just places to shoot hoops. They’re community hubs where young people from all backgrounds come together, break down barriers, and build lasting bonds. For many, it’s a place to feel included, respected, and part of something bigger.

 

Devin Daly, Minister of State, Youth & Sports

“Ah feel all types of emotions right now, honestly, because I am a true testament of what sports and, specifically, basketball has done for me. This is the start to, hopefully, many great things, many great programs within this community and I am sure that the local association will see that through. But before I continue on, I would like to share a bit of my journey and what sports did for me, what education [did for me.] At the Ministry of Youth and Sports, we’ve established early what we want to be, the four pillars moving forward for our political tenure. We’re looking at education, health and wellness, economics and civic pride, all of them we are trying to tie together with this new vision led by Minister Anthony Mahler.”

 

Getting involved in sports does more than build physical strength—it helps young people discover who they are. Being part of a team gives them a sense of belonging, boosts their confidence, and helps them feel seen and valued by both peers and adults. This kind of support is especially important during the teenage years, when young people are figuring out their identity and where they fit in the world.

 

Anthony Mahler, Minister of Youth & Sports

“For me, facilities like this can help us create and build better people across the country. If we have better people, we have a better tourism industry. That’s how I was looking at it, and we have a better country. And so, I prefer investing in facilities like this than investing in guns and vehicles for the police to do their job. If we have decent people then we don’t have to worry about that part of it. And so, that was the idea behind this.”

 

Having access to sports facilities gives young people a safe and structured place to spend their time, especially after school. These spaces offer supervised activities that keep them active, focused, and out of trouble. It’s a simple but powerful way to steer youth away from risky behavior and toward positive growth.

 

Michel Chebat, Area Representative, Cayo North

“This court stands, not just as a physical structure, but as a symbol of progress, collaboration and our shared commitment to youth and sports development in this region. We have long known the talent and passion for basketball that lives within our towns and no our athletes finally have a facility that matches their potential. This court is more than just hardwood and hoops. It is the foundation for dreams, discipline and unity. Let us continue to support our young athletes and keep pushing forward together.”

 

The court was made possible through sponsorship from the Belize Tourism Board, and it’s already being hailed as a game-changer for the community.

Isani Cayetano for News Five.