Swampscott Launches Community Basketball League for All Ages

The Swampscott Recreation Department has introduced a new initiative aimed at fostering community connections through sports. The program, named the Tides Hoops Men’s Basketball League, is designed for men aged 20 to 60 and takes place on Monday and Thursday nights at Swampscott Elementary School.

Veteran educator and coach John Squires leads the league, which encourages participants to engage in friendly competition while strengthening community ties. Squires, who has deep roots in Swampscott, shared his passion for basketball and the motivation behind the league’s creation. “I grew up in Swampscott, I raised my family here, and I was an assistant principal at Swampscott Middle School for 15 years,” he explained. “Basketball has been a passion of mine my whole life, and I’ve always wanted to do something like this.”

The league features 4-on-4 games, with each match consisting of two 20-minute halves. Currently in its fourth week, Squires reported that nearly 80 players have joined, with aspirations to exceed 100 participants in the future. “I have them on three courts, and I have three games going at once. It’s kind of like a circus,” he noted, highlighting the lively atmosphere of the games.

Squires emphasized the importance of community support in launching this program. He acknowledged the contributions of several key figures, including Superintendent of Schools Jason Calichman, who facilitated access to the school’s facilities, and Recreation Director Charlotte Daher de Garcia, who collaborated on the initiative. Additionally, he praised his co-coordinator, Jesse Despo, for his assistance. “He’s been very good, too, and we’re working together. It’s going really well,” Squires stated.

The league aims to accommodate players of all skill levels, with plans to expand into four divisions. “Right now, I have three — but if you have four, there’s a place for everybody, no matter what,” Squires remarked. He believes this inclusivity will enhance the sense of community among participants, fostering connections that extend beyond the basketball court.

Daher de Garcia expressed her enthusiasm for the program. “He has over 70 players, which is really exciting. He’s been doing this for years, and we’re privileged to have him come back to town and be here for years to come,” she stated. She emphasized the positive energy emanating from the players, which bodes well for the league’s future.

On Thursday evenings, the gymnasium at Swampscott Elementary School comes alive as players gather for games. Participants hail from various North Shore communities, forming teams named after colleges, such as the University of North Carolina and the University of Montana. The competitive spirit is palpable, and players engage in six games throughout the night.

Jess Burton, a participant, shared his journey into the league. “I spent years playing in the league that he ran at the Jewish Community Center of the North Shore, and now that he started this league up, I wanted to support him and be there for him,” he said. He underscored the significance of such programs in fostering friendships and community. “I think it’s a good way to bring both men and women that want to play basketball together. … I didn’t know the people that I signed up to play on the team with, but we’re already fast friends,” Burton added.

Another player, Suraj Krishnamurthi, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the enjoyment and competition offered by the league. “It’s fun, and good competition, it’s nice to get out for an hour a week,” he remarked. He also noted the appeal of playing in the newly constructed school gymnasium, which has become a central hub for local athletes.

For those interested in joining the Tides Hoops Men’s Basketball League, more information is available through the Swampscott Recreation Department’s website. The initiative exemplifies how sports can unite individuals from diverse backgrounds, promoting camaraderie and a shared love for the game.