School basketball stars vie for state honours

More than 200 young basketball stars from across the state will descend on Gladstone tomorrow (26 July) to compete in the Queensland School Sport 12-Years-and-Under Basketball Championships.

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said the Gladstone Kev Broome Basketball Complex would host the four-day championships from Saturday to Tuesday.

“The championships will be played with teams divided into pools for the first two days, with cross-over games to be held on Monday and the playoffs and grand-finals on Tuesday,” Mr Welford said.

"I'd like to congratulate all competitors for their achievement in representing their regions, and wish them every success at the championships.

"This event offers a great opportunity for these young athletes to compete at a high level while meeting and sharing experiences with their peers from across the state in this Year of Physical Activity.

“I have no doubt some of these students will follow in the footsteps of Peter Crawford, of the Townsville Crocodiles and Perth Wildcats NBL, and Michaela Dalgleish of the Canberra Capitals WNBL, who both played in these championships before launching their professional careers.”

Ten sporting regions will be represented— Capricornia, Darling Downs, Metropolitan West, Metropolitan North, Metropolitan East, Northern, Wide Bay, Peninsula, South Coast and Sunshine Coast.

Mr Welford thanked the dedicated teachers and school staff who have worked hard to make the championships a success.

A state team consisting of 10 girls and 10 boys will be selected to compete at the Pacific School Games which will be held in Canberra in November.

Media contact: Marnie Stitz or Emma Clarey on 3237 1000