BERGEN - Within Fana and Ytrebygda, an inspiring movement is taking shape, one basketball at a time. Arne Ingebrigtsen, a former BLNO player with an impressive 11-season career, has dedicated himself to mentoring the next generation through After School, a motivating basketball program. Now in its third year, After School is a collaboration between Ytrebygda Basketballklubb and Kirkevoll Basketballklubb, offering more than just athletic opportunities—it’s creating an opportunity for the youth to grow..

Hope & Hoops

After School provides free basketball lessons for children in grades 1–4 at seven schools, including Kirkevoll, Skeie, Hjellestad, Skranevatnet, Aurdalslia, Søreide, and the International School of Bergen (ISB). Each week, over 300 children participate in the program, which is powered by experienced coaches including Pol Olivier Canyadell (Fyllingen Lions), Karoline Søvik Killingrød, David Garcia Lopez, and Arne himself.

What began as an initiative to recruit younger kids into basketball has exceeded all expectations. With waiting lists now in place for all younger age groups, the program’s focus has evolved into mentoring children and using basketball as a tool for further development.

“After three years, I’ve gained a lot of insight into the biggest challenges in our community,” Arne shares. “I firmly believe that the discipline and togetherness that basketball brings can help children build positive habits, steering them away from unhealthy activities.”

After School’s success stems from its collaborative approach, uniting local schools, local  basketball clubs, and organizations like Meteva Sport og Helse AS. With funding from Meteva Sport og Helse AS  and its Founder, Louise Mohn, the program is a shining example of how partnerships can drive community change. Henriette Skouen and Bouna Black N’Diaye from Meteva Sport og Helse AS are integral to this work as well, ensuring strategic support for the program’s three-year plan. They are equally committed to the lives of children and creating a sustainable future for them. 

"When we see leaders like Arne, who once received guidance, now using his skills to pay it forward, it creates a full-circle experience. It’s a reminder that success is about lifting others up along the way," said Jan Hendrik Parmann, President of the Norwegian Basketball Federation (NBBF).

After initially meeting with the International School of Bergen (ISB), Arne shared his admiration for the school, highlighting its peaceful environment and the children’s attention to detail. “It’s rare to see such organization and engagement. ISB stands as a model for what schools can achieve,” Arne remarked.