In the early mornings in London, before the rush of commuters and daily hustle begins. This is Hoops B4 Work, the innovative basketball project led by Coach Ruth Eytle—and it’s more than just a workout.
What is Hoops B4 Work?
Founded by the passionate and ever-driven Coach Ruth Eytle, Hoops B4 Work provides structured basketball coaching and scrimmage sessions with a difference. Designed for busy Londoners, sessions run from 6:30 AM to 7:45 AM, leaving just enough time to get a solid sweat in, shower, and still make it to work on time.
Whether you’re rekindling a love for the game from your school or university days, or picking up a basketball for the first time as an adult, Hoops B4 Work offers a supportive and inclusive space to learn, grow, and challenge yourself.
More Than a Game: A Mission for Wellness and Community
Hoops B4 Work isn’t just about basketball—it’s about community, health, and empowerment. With sessions tailored for all skill levels, participants benefit from both personal and team development, all while enhancing their physical and mental well-being.
Coach Ruth’s classes are uniquely structured to support individual goals—whether that’s refining your layup, improving cardio fitness, or simply starting the day on a positive, purposeful note. The community-focused model promotes inclusivity and long-term wellbeing, helping participants build lifelong habits of movement and connection.
Making an Impact: By the Numbers
In 2024 alone, over 300 individuals have directly benefited from Hoops B4 Work’s sessions. Participants span across all age groups and identities, including:
- Under 18s (girls, boys, non-binary)
- Adults 18–50 (women, men, non-binary)
- Older Adults 51+ (women, men, non-binary)
Representation matters, and Hoops B4 Work proudly supports a diverse community, with around 70% of participants identifying as BAME (Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic).
Real Stories, Real Change
The success of Hoops B4 Work is best heard in the voices of its players:
“I first came to Hoops after 15 years out of basketball. I wanted to get back in shape and work on my game. Since coming to Hoops and working with Coach Ruth, I am back playing National League Basketball and she has reignited my passion for the game!”
— Ruby Clarke
“I joined HB4W 4 years ago and am hooked. I count the days to the next training or scrimmage whenever travels make me miss a session. Hoops made me realise I could still progress technically and tactically in a sport I loved playing as a teenager, and this brightens my days.”
— Yves Cosentino
These testimonials highlight what makes this project so special: it’s not just about playing basketball. It’s about reclaiming confidence, chasing new goals, and belonging to something bigger than yourself.
A Vision That’s Just Getting Started
Coach Ruth Eytle’s vision is as clear as it is inspiring: to build a thriving basketball community through participation, officiating, and coaching. By empowering people from all walks of life to connect through sport, Hoops B4 Work is redefining what it means to “get your game on” before sunrise.
