Torquay Coast announce academy

BASKETBALL in Torquay is taking a big step forward with one of the town’s constituent clubs laying the foundations for its own academy.

Torquay Coast Basketball Club has announced it will create its very own academy program by submitting at least three teams to the Geelong United Basketball association across three age groups during the 2024-25 summer season.

Torquay Coast president Peter Withers said the academy aimed to provide local junior basketball players with the training regime to improve their skills to the representative level, without the logistical challenges of travel.

“The academy is our way of helping local kids elevate their game to the next level.

“The majority of our teams will continue to compete in the Surfcoast Basketball Association, that’s where the primary focus is still, but more training for some of our players will be on offer for those who are interested.

“We’re hoping to form academy teams for the Under 14 and Under 12 age groups, but it will depend on the registrations we receive for each age group.”

The academy program’s tryout will take place at Torquay College on September 7 from 10am to 1pm.

Withers said overall interest coupled with the teams Geelong United will accept into competitions next season will determine how many academy sides will play next season.

The club is also aiming to register close to 200 players for the summer season, an increase from over 160 players currently playing in the winter season.

Torquay Coast has also announced when its Come & Try Days will be held for the summer 2024-25 season.

The Come & Try session caters to first-time basketballers up to the age of 11. The session will also run at Torquay College, on September 14 from 10am to 1pm.

“The club continues to grow, we’re always interested to hear from new kids eager to join, that’s why we always recommend families attend the Come & Try sessions,” Withers said.

“We’re a club that prioritises creating an inclusive, safe, and fun environment for basketball. Every year, we strive to bring our club back to these core values, and we’re always eager to find new ways to cater to our players’ needs.”

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