Torquay Coast announces exciting next steps

A SURF Coast basketball club is celebrating exciting next steps in its history as it expands opportunities for its junior players.

Torquay Coast Basketball Club announced its incorporation as an officially recognised basketball club earlier today (Sunday, March 26) at the club’s season launch, in addition to joining Geelong United Basketball (GUB) as its newest affiliated member.

Club president Peter Withers said these were exciting next steps heading into the 2023 winter season and was most looking forward to watching his junior players develop.

“It’s all about development as far as I’m concerned, it’s always been about development.

“We had seven teams in finals last season, which was great, but it’s not about that, the most important part about playing basketball is player development and continuing to grow our players’ skillset.”

First formed in 2019 and still a member of the Surf Coast Basketball Association (SBA), Torquay Coast will seek to enter junior teams in the 2023/24 GUB summer season later this year.

“We are excited and grateful to Geelong United for this opportunity and the positive support they have provided us,” Mr Withers said.

“Our players and coaches will gain additional development opportunities via GUB’s programs.

“This will allow our club to grow and provide a new beginning in our aim of supporting our people to reach their fullest potential.”

Torquay Coast was confirmed as GUB’s 18th affiliated club member on Tuesday this week by the GUB Board.

GUB chief executive officer Mark Neeld said Torquay Coast’s addition to its domestic ranks will continue the growth of basketball in the region.

“All of us here at Geelong United Basketball are thrilled to welcome Torquay Coast Basketball Club.

“Both organisations are closely aligned in values.

“We work with basketball people for the betterment of the sport by promoting lifelong activity through basketball.”