Enterprise Basketball Team Reflects Command Focus on Fitness

U.S. Navy Releases

NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- USS Enterprise (CVN 65) released the ship's basketball team rosters June 9 after tough tryouts during their recent underway periods.

The ship's two teams, Enterprise Varsity and Enterprise Fraternity, will participate in the Naval Station Norfolk Intramural Basketball League. The team members held a meeting to discuss the responsibilities of coaching, league play and the expectations of the players.

Both teams will compete in a minimum of six games to get a chance to compete in the base tournament. Players will be able to practice in any base facility throughout the Hampton Roads area.

Participation for Sailors on the basketball league promotes physical fitness aboard Enterprise and in the Navy.

"It is important for Sailors to be physically fit to ensure they are able to perform their day-to-day duties," said Electronics Technician 1st Class Jonathan D. Sadler.

The Navy's culture of fitness is a critical part of being a well-rounded Sailor. Recent changes to the evaluation and fitness report program, covered in NAVADMIN 083-10 highlight the importance of staying physically fit. With Physical Fitness Assessment scores now being input into evaluations and fitness reports, the link between staying fit and advancement has never been clearer.

"This will help boost morale by giving the crew an option of recreation after working hours," said Sadler. "They can support the team for their command and promote the Navy's culture of fitness at the same time."

Staying physically fit while in the Navy helps Sailors stay healthy while on the job and prevents injuries that could occur from not being capable of handling the rough environment of an operational command.

The Navy standards for fitness require Sailors to pass a physical fitness test every six months. This test requires Sailors to stay within weight standards for their height and age as well as pass the physical readiness testing requirements. Finding different and exciting ways to stay fit with fellow Sailors helps to keep the workplace more enjoyable and safer through camaraderie and physical fitness.

The first basketball game will be held June 14.

Enterprise is in its homeport at Naval Station Norfolk, Va. preparing for Carrier Assessment Requirement Training in preparation for work-ups and the 21st deployment.