Buenos Aires, Argentina – The Deaf International Basketball Federation (DIBF) recently concluded a series of impactful Basketball for Good clinics in Bolivia and argentina, providing deaf youth athletes with enhanced basketball skills and leadership training. Supported by a financial grant from the FIBA Foundation’s Propose A Project platform, the initiatives aim to build a connected and educated deaf basketball community across South America.
The program began with clinics in Bolivia, where participants learned basketball through sign language. This was followed by a leadership workshop on September 1st. From September 5th to 7th,the DIBF team,led by Mr. Dario Pignataro and Mr. James DeStefano, hosted a three-day clinic in El Dorado, Argentina.
the argentina clinic saw the participation of 14 deaf youth athletes aged 14-18.Beyond skill growth, the clinic incorporated opportunities for participants to explore the city of Eldorado, fostering teamwork and collaboration.
“The Deaf International Basketball Federation (DIBF) is deeply grateful to the FIBA Foundation – Basketball for Good – for their meaningful collaboration and support for the Deaf youth in Bolivia and Argentina,” said Mr. James DeStefano, DIBF Secretary General. “together, we’re using basketball to break barriers, build confidence, and create lasting opportunities for young deaf people to believe in themselves and their dreams.”
Looking ahead, DIBF plans to expand these clinics to Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, Peru, and Paraguay, addressing the limited access to organized teaching for deaf basketball players.
Launched in 2020, the FIBA Foundation’s propose A Project supports global Basketball for Good efforts aligned with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.In 2025 alone, 73 projects were financially supported, along with provision of equipment and mentorship, from a record 332 submissions.
Applications for the FIBA Foundation’s 2026 Propose A Project will open in early January. Interested parties can subscribe to the FIBA Basketball for Good newsletter for updates: https://mailchi.mp/fiba/basketball-for-good.
The FIBA Foundation serves as the social and legacy arm of FIBA,dedicated to leveraging the power of basketball to empower,educate,and inspire youth worldwide.More facts about the FIBA Foundation can be found at: https://www.fiba.basketball/foundation/?page=/home.
