WELCOME TO ESSA
BASKETBALL ACADEMY
Our Vision
To create programs that will nurture the growth of our athletes by providing high-quality instruction, a fun and inclusive environment, while focused on developing and improving skills for the game.
Our VALUES
Our core values are integrity, passion, accountability, discipline, perseverance, inclusion and respect. We honour the individual and their contribution to the team, with teamwork and community at the heart of what we do.
DIVERSITY
At Essa Basketball Academy (EBA), we celebrate an inclusive environment that promotes and endorses the diverse voices of our community. We strive for everyone to be their authentic selves, which fosters ingenuity and innovation.
ABOUT US
Sharon Butler – Founder & Program Coordinator, Girls CAN
Sharon Butler is the founder and program coordinator of Girls CAN, a community-based initiative dedicated to empowering young girls through sport and skill development. With over 25 years of coaching and grassroots experience, Sharon has designed Girls CAN to focus on fundamental skill-building, cooperative games, and confidence-building activities that prepare girls for success on and off the court. Her mission is to create a safe, supportive environment where girls can grow as athletes, leaders, and future change makers.
HANNAH BERNHARDT – Program MANAGER, Girls CAN
Hannah Bernhardt is the Program Manager for Girls CAN. An avid basketball player since middle school, Hannah has spent years volunteering in youth basketball programs, where she developed a passion for supporting young student-athletes. Her goal is to inspire girls to see that they can compete, build confidence, and prove wrong anyone who doubts them — all while having fun in a supportive environment.
GIRLS CAN
At Essa Basketball Academy, our Girls Can program is designed to help young athletes develop fundamentals, sharpen skills, and build confidence. Through fun drills, competitive games, and teamwork-driven activities, girls will grow as players and as leaders while creating lasting memories with their teammates
GRANT/PARTNERSHIPS
