National va’a team urges better funding, coordination and travel support to keep pace with Pacific rivals.
By: Laurel Marewibuel
Clapp said, “A lot of it depends on what the kids are dealing with. We’ve seen problems with depression, self-harm, and drug use. People are always looking for meaning and purpose.”
Jon Clapp, coach and founder of the Island Jams basketball tournament, fondly recalls a highlight from the event’s early days. “I remember one year when we still had the basketball floor; a guy named Anderson came out. He played professional basketball, was a college player for the University of Wisconsin, and then played overseas. He actually came out and did a basketball clinic for us,” Clapp said. “That year, we had lots and lots of kids come. We actually had two separate tournaments, one for younger players and one for older ones. It was really fun; we did a lot with the kids that year. That was probably one of my favorite memories. It was our tenth anniversary—so ten years ago.”
Clapp highlights the importance of Island Jam’s family-friendly, alcohol- and drug-free environment in fostering a safe and welcoming space. “Everybody feels safe. For a lot of kids who don’t play basketball often, our emphasis on a drug-free, smoke-free, alcohol-free, mainly family-oriented environment helps young people who aren’t maybe as confident in playing basketball come and get some valuable experience,” he explained. “It also lets them meet new people they might not have met before. That adds a huge part to the tournament itself. It’s not just for basketball players, it’s for families. That’s a big part of what we do and what we want to continue doing.”
When asked about the message of hope he shares with the youth, Clapp said, “A lot of it depends on what the kids are dealing with. We’ve seen problems with depression, self-harm, and drug use. People are always looking for meaning and purpose. I’m not ashamed to say I believe the Bible offers each of us purpose and hope.”
He continued, “We want the kids to hear that their life means something. Whether they believe it or not, God has a plan for them. The underlying issue these kids face is that they’re all looking for purpose, meaning, and to fit in. The Gospel provides a message for all that. I hope each kid walks away knowing their life has meaning and purpose—and it’s found in Jesus Christ.”
Finally, when asked what message he would use to advertise Island Jam, Clapp replied thoughtfully, “I want people to know anyone is welcome to Island Jam. We hope to do this for years to come. More than anything, we want people to know the hope of Jesus Christ. That’s the number one thing I want them to remember.”