Going Out: Show off your slam dunk skills in the UAE this summer

Jay Asser 19:53 19/07/2016
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  • Get involved: There are three divisions of different standards to choose from.

    Three leagues will be offered in the new season, beginning at the end of August or start of September and running for several weeks.

    No matter what level of play you’ve reached – whether you’re a beginner just learning to shoot, or capable of pulling off Stephen Curry-like moves – there’s a league that suits what you’re looking for.

    “Ball Above All is back and stronger than ever,” said Belal Abiad, organiser of the league. “A huge interest has been shown in the unique league and we step it up season after season.”

    The Elite League, or Division 1, caters to the highest level of athletes, from former professionals to players who’ve played in college or high school.

    Those playing in Division 1 also get the luxury of having FIBA certified refs officiating the games and stats recorded so you can track your performance throughout the season.

    Winners will walk away with Dh8,000 in prize money, while a championship trophy, medals and an MVP will also be handed out.

    Division 1 will take place Monday through Wednesday from 19:30 onwards, from August 29 to November 9. The fee is Dh5,500 per team, paid before August 7.

    All to play for: There are medals and a winning trophy up for grabs.

    All to play for: There are medals and a winning trophy up for grabs.

    Semi-elite and corporate players looking for slightly less intense competition can test their skills in Division 2, which is great for connecting with business professionals on and off the court.

    Prize money of Dh5,000 will be on the line, along with a championship trophy and medals.

    The league runs Sunday to Tuesday from 19:30 onwards, beginning August 28 and ending November 8.

    To enter, teams must pay Dh4,500 before August 7.

    Finally, the new Division 3 is tipping off for lower-level players who like to have fun and stay fit.

    Teams can be formed of all men, all women, or even mixed, with a championship trophy and medals up for grabs.

    Division 3 will take place every Thursday from 19:00, starting September 1 and ending November 3.

    Sign your team up for Dh4,000 before August 7.

    Games in all the leagues will be played at Raffles World Academy and if you fail to pay the registration fee on time, late entry is available for Dh500 added on per team.

    Teams can also have the chance to play in the Sole Ball Above All Classic, which will be held after the conclusion of the leagues in November. The top four teams in Division 1 and 2 will be invited for the event.

    You can even get some coaching beforehand, with adult sessions running every Wednesday.

    What: Ball Above All leagues
    Where: Raffles World Academy, Dubai
    When: Leagues run from late August/early September to November
    Contact: www.ballaboveall.ae

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