Young Canterbury basketball fans will have the chance to learn from professional players when Mainland Pouākai host an open day in Rangiora this Saturday.

The team will welcome boys and girls in school Years 5 to 10 to MainPower Stadium on September 12, ahead of their season opener later this month.

Pouākai player Morgan Yaeger said excitement was building ahead of the new season at Parakiore Recreation and Sports Centre.

“There’s so much momentum behind women’s sport, particularly basketball, both in New Zealand and around the world. We’re excited to be part of that and to get our season underway at Parakiore,” Yaeger said.

“Having a Kiwi WNBA player like Charlisse Leger-Walker, who plays for the Connecticut Sun, join the Wellington-based Tokomanawa Queens brings another level of excitement to a league already full of talented players. As a player, I’m looking forward to that extra challenge.”

Saturday’s open day will give young fans the chance to meet the Pouākai players before the competition begins.

“We’re looking forward to meeting our fans and giving young Canterbury players the chance to learn from us and have some fun on court.”

Running from 12.30pm to 2pm, the event will give participants the opportunity to watch the team train and take part in games, skills sessions and drills.

Canterbury Rams captain Taylor Britt will also join the team as a special guest.

Entry is $10 per child, and parents and caregivers are welcome to stay and watch.

Participants have been asked to register before 6pm on Friday. Registration is available through the Mainland Pouākai website.

The open day comes as Pouākai prepare for their opening game on Saturday, September 26, at Parakiore Recreation and Sports Centre in Christchurch.

The team is encouraging supporters to bring family and friends along with two ticket offers: a free child’s ticket with a paying adult, or a free third ticket when two adult tickets are purchased.

The free child’s ticket offer applies to Bronze seating only, while the Mates Package applies to Silver seating only.

Tickets for the September 26 game, including both offers, are available through Ticketek.