By Marjorie Gorospe
QUEZON CITY, METRO MANILA- Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra is set to return to the Philippines to again lead the fitness program of the National Basketball Association (NBA) in the country.
“Coach Spo” will work with local sports experts, nutrition and health experts for the comprehensive health and wellness program that encourages physical activity and healthy living for children and families.
The health program is slated from July 25 to August 7 across Metro Manila and is endorsed by the Department of Health (DoH).
The Filipino-American Spoelstra, who led his team to the NBA Finals this season against the Dallas Mavericks, would be coming back with assistant coaches Dave Fizdale and Chad Kammerer.
“I had a really fulfilling trip last year working with Filipino families and youth and I am thrilled to back to the Philippines for the NBA FIT program,” Spoelstra said.
He said promoting a healthy living and physical activity through the NBA FIT is his chance of giving back to the local community. Spoelstra is also being tapped by the DoH to influence and educate young Filipinos on the dangers of smoking, drugs and excessive alcohol consumption.
Ed Winkle, NBA Senior Director for Business Development and Marketing Partnerships, said the NBA is “ready to bring back a much bigger NBA FIT this year, especially to the Philippines, where there are many NBA fans.
“We thank our passionate Filipino NBA fans for making this possible and our partners for their continuous support in promoting health and fitness to the Filipino community,” he said.
The expanded NBA FIT program would include clinics to be held at grade schools, high schools, universities and shopping malls that would focus on regular physical activity, better daily nutrition and smart personal health choices.
The NBA FIT will also have a development camp on August 5 at the Araneta Coliseum for the Energen Philippine Under-16 National Team who are currently preparing for the FIBA-Asia Under-16 Championships in October.
Spoelstra with his assistant coaches would also give insights to coaches of the Basketball Federation of the Philippines and National Capital Region high schools and colleges.
After the development camp, 16 celebrities from the entertainment and sports industry would also be facing the NBA FIT Challenge where the winning team would be able to give back to their chosen charity.
Aside from the clinics, there would also be fun run activity on August 7 at the Fort Bonifacio Global City, co-organized by NBA and RunRio.
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