If you’re a retired athlete or a parent whose children outgrew their equipment, you may have a lot of basketball items. There’s no point in holding onto all this gear, especially when it creates clutter in your home. However, if these items are in great shape despite the years of use, throwing them away is also out of the question. Instead, consider donating to us.

Read on to explore everything you need to know about donating basketball items.

Sport gear we love to recieve

Please see the following sport gear items that we love to receive as these items are generally able to be re-connected back out in the community and are very appreciated by those that receive them.  For anything not on this list please get in touch with us via email at basketball.kaipara@gmail.com.

• Basketball shoes

• Drink bottles (metal only)

• Balls that are near new or are in great condition (the exterior isn’t worn or punctured, is clean, no sharp edges, the internal bladder is still able to be inflated.)

• Hoops

• Protective gear (mouthguards) 

Inspect Every Piece

Evaluating the items you wish to donate is a crucial part of the process. While the gear will appear used, it shouldn’t look worn out. Not sure how to tell the difference?

Tips for Inspecting Shoes

When inspecting shoes, check the following areas:

• Tongue: Unravelled threads or tearing

• Body: Holes, tears, or wearing

• Soles: Wear along the base or toe

Don't donate the pair if you notice these problems, especially wear or holes in the shoe’s base. Also, inspect the inside for the same wear. Would you proudly wear the shoe out? Why haven’t you worn the pair in a while? If you haven’t worn the footwear because it reached the end of its life, recycle them.

Donating Tip

The laces may appear frayed, but the rest of the shoe could still be in excellent condition. Consider purchasing a pair of replacement laces before you give a complete shoe.

Why Inspection Matters

Worn-out sporting equipment doesn’t just matter for aesthetics. It also affects performance and can increase or decrease risks.  Similarly, old shoes may not have the same traction or foot support. This can increase an athlete’s risk of experiencing injuries on the court.

For pick-up or drop-off of donations, please contact us via the details below:

Contact Details

Cyrena Brunton
Secretary
Kaipara Basketball Association

E:  basketball.kaipara@gmail.com

Toni Phillips
Committee Member
Kaipara Basketball Association

E:  toniaphillips123@gmail.com

Don’t get us wrong; we'd also love to receive brand-new basketball items, so feel free to contact us. Thank you for your support towards our beautiful game and the Kaipara community!