A team of young local basketballers have embarked on a mission to fundraise at least $30,000 to pursue their dream of competing in the Under 14 Australian Club Championships in Sydney this September.
The U14 Australian Club Championships is a national competition – running parallel to the FIBA Womens World Cup from September 24 to 30 – which sees 24 teams from around Australia fight it out for the top spot.
The Eastern Mavericks District Basketball Club, located in Mount Barker, will be one of the teams contending for the championship title, and the only one to comprise of country-based athletes, including half who either play basketball, live or attend school in Strathalbyn.
“It’s a prestigious event being held in Sydney for the first time, and they will be competing at a high level of basketball, which will improve their skills (and) teamwork, and create other great opportunities for them all, as well as being able to spend extra time with each other,” Janelle Tucker, on behalf of the parents, said.
“Players, family members, and staff look forward to the high standard of competition, seeing the girls grow and develop, and strengthening their already tight-knit bond.”
In order to cover approximately $60,000 for air fares, a hire bus and car, accommodation, nomination fees, uniforms, and meals for athletes and their families, and volunteer coaching staff and team managers, the team is holding a number of fundraisers and seeking out sponsors over the coming months.
Mrs Tucker said the team is aiming to raise at least $30,000, with anything more considered a “bonus”.
“As it is a real privilege and a huge achievement for a team to make (the championships), the club gets behind the team to provide fundraising ideas and support,” she said.
“The last couple of years with COVID have meant some of these big interstate events have been cancelled, so to make it and be able to attend is really exciting for the girls and the club.
“We have already held an online Body Shop fundraiser, as well as a Zyia Activewear fundraiser in the last couple of weeks as a starting point, and have also just finished selling tickets for a crayfish raffle.
“We hope to send the Strathalbyn girls around the town to approach local businesses for some raffle donations, and hold a general raffle in the coming weeks outside of the IGA in Mount Barker, who have kindly donated a $200 food voucher to assist with the girls’ food costs whilst in Sydney.
“Some online auctions will also be held via social media for some donated items we have received, such as firewood, three nights’ accommodation at Wrights Bay, and a one-week powered site stay at Wrights Bay Caravan Park.”
Mrs Tucker encouraged residents to support the team in any way they can.
“We would love people to get on board this team, as playing sport is such an integral part of these communities, not to mention, being able to qualify for an interstate event,” she said.
“They have all worked so hard the last few months with their coach Shaun Bell, and to see this pay off and qualify is a testament to their commitment.
“They train twice a week, play on a Friday night, and being 12 to 13 years old, rely on family members to get them to these.
“If the local community could get behind them and either donate some raffle items, or sponsor the team to assist with their costs that would be a huge help.
“An increasing number of teenage girls are dropping out of sport, so anything that can be done to continue to provide these opportunities for country girls is very welcomed.”
The girls will first compete in the National Junior Classics in Melbourne later this month, before jetting off to Sydney towards the end of the year.
To follow the team’s fundraising endeavours, visit their Facebook page at (https://www.facebook.com/Eastern-Mavericks-U14-Girls-Australian-Club-Championships-2022-109629321753432/).
For sponsorship and donations enquiries, contact 0408 364 204.
