Swampscott native Chris Balliro believes in the value of repetition.

After graduating from Swampscott High School as one of the Big Blue’s most decorated basketball players, Balliro played Division I basketball at Stony Brook University before playing professionally overseas in Italy and Spain for over a decade.

One difference Balliro noticed between basketball at home and in Europe was the structure of practices, especially at the youth level.

Balliro, who also coached youth basketball overseas, said in the U.S. full scrimmage games takes up a large chunk of practice time. In Europe, drills and fundamentals are emphasized, and scrimmages are treated like a reward at the end of a grueling practice.

This philosophy is something Balliro brought back to Swampscott and has installed within the youth basketball clinics he has run for nearly a decade.

“In America, games are more common and practices less,” said Balliro. “In a game, is the kid at the end of the bench really learning anything?”

Teaming up with the Swampscott Recreation Department, Balliro offers summer clinics to players entering grades four through eight. In the winter, he offers clinics to grades kindergarten through fifth grade. Balliro’s main goal through his coaching is keeping every athlete happy, involved and learning at a high level, no matter the skill level or physical capabilities of the players sharing the court.

From beginners to advanced players, Balliro enjoys coaching a wide range of skillsets, and also offers some private training as well.

“I try to make things intense but also very fun,” said Balliro. “You have to find that happy medium.”

Balliro said he teaches drills and skills that players can take home with them and practice over and over again in the mirror, or the driveway.

“One concept I definitely try is not teaching down to age,” said Balliro. “I might have a player who is 7 years old. I’ll still provide them with a rigorous learning structure.”

Along with the importance of repetitive practice, the former Northeast Conference Most Valuable Player said helping grow the passion for the game of basketball is what he sets out to do.

“As much as I like teaching how to play the right way, having fun more than anything and understanding the value of camaraderie is key,” he said.

A Big Blue legend himself, Balliro said it’s also nice helping out boys and girls who will one day represent the Swampscott basketball programs at the high school level.

“That’s really the goal – to help out these programs,” said Balliro. “I’m happy to share the knowledge I have gained internationally. I just want to pass that on. The whole idea is helping the community and giving back.”