Sabresmagazine2014 web

C E L E B R A T I N G

C E L E B R A T

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contents

where to find stuff..

President’s Message

4

Some old faces!

41

SEABL Men

6

U16 Team Reports

42

SEABL Women

8

Free Throws

44

U18 Team Photos

46

U20 Team Photos

49

The Huddle

50

U18 Team Reports

52

U20 Team Reports

54

Thirsty Work

56

Big V Men

10

Big V Women

12

Basketball Operations

14

U12 Team Photos

15

U14 Team Photos

18

U12 Team Reports

23

U14 Team Reports

25

On the court

28

Coaches at Work

58

40 Years of Sabres

34

2014 Imports

60

U16 Team Photos

36

It’s not all serious!

62

Referees

40

AIS Experience

64

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25/08/2014 10:02 pm

“40 years

President’s Message

in the making”

This year marks a special milestone for the Southern Basketball Association. On September 21, the Association celebrates 40 years since the first matches were played at the small memorial hall court in Waltham Street, Sandringham.

A supermarket now stands in place of the memorial hall but there are still many of us who were involved in the early days that have fond memories of our humble beginnings and the people who worked so hard to create what has now grown into the Association we all enjoy today. This year also marks 20 years since we moved into our current four court home.

Just like 40 years ago, the SBA continues to have dedicated people who work each day to create new pathways and memories for us all.

The game may not quite be the same, but the enthusiasm of those involved remains. Thank you to all who have contributed to the SBA over the past 40 years, I hope you enjoy reading the 2014 yearbook, as it too now forms a record and another chapter of tomorrow’s history.

Happy anniversary!

Steven Lunardon, President, Southern Basketball Association.

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SEABL men

SEABL REVIEW

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The 2014 SEABL season has been a very challenging one to say the least with a mixture of retirements, injuries and import changes ensuring there was never a dull moment in Sabre land.

We began the season with a focus on reconnecting ourselves with the Youth League team and re-establishing the pathway for our Sabres juniors into the Senior team.

From pre-season onwards, the SEABL and Youth League teams have trained together once a week, not only allowing a number of Youth league players to play their first SEABL games of their careers but also resulted in some significant improvement in some players. Matt Burke, Alex Lemons, Matt Crees and Matt Tolj have all played their first SEABL minutes this year and will no doubt play many more in the future.

There was no pre-season trip this year however we played a number of practice games throughout February and early March.

With 2 new imports and a few other new faces (along with a new coach), the team was always going to take time to find itself, however our first up thrashing at the hands of Kilsyth took everybody by surprise. From there we had 3 straight wins including strong away wins in Albury and Hobart before crashing back to earth at the hands of NW Tassie.

Our next 2 games saw a 1 and 2 point loss but worse still was the ankle injury to James McKinnon. JMAC was a Sabres junior who came into the SEABL side for the first time this year and quickly established himself as a vital member of the team with his tireless energy and team play. James would miss the next 6 games, and with Lachlan Winter quitting the next day, we were all of a sudden 2 big men down. With Kye Patrick and Ben Kelly missing games due to work and personal commitments, we were dominated inside and went through the toughest patch of the season. After beginning 3 and 1 we were now 4 and 9 at the half way point with our season slipping away.

It was at this time that a difficult decision was made to release one of our imports Mike Moore. At the time he was our leading scorer averaging over 21 points per game but we felt we needed another inside presence to help Ray Goins who was playing a lone hand on the boards. Ray arrived in Australia out of shape and struggling to perform but he dedicated himself to getting into shape and although the team was struggling, Ray was beginning to play some great basketball for us.

Mike was replaced by athletic 4 man Junior Hairston who quickly established himself as a crucial member of the team and all of a sudden, we were back in the hunt for playoffs again.

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The tough decision of letting Mike go, led to a great opportunity for Alistair Mcdonald and Stefan Uzelac. Both guys were already important parts of the team and playing career highs in minutes but both took their games to another level with their increased responsibility in the guard positions.

Our captain, Nathan Crosswell has also had a fantastic year and has led from the front as usual. He is currently 2nd in the league is assists and continues to work hard at both ends of the floor.

With Junior’s arrival and the return of JMAC from injury we won 4 games in a row to get us back in contention and at the time of writing we sit just outside the top 4. Bad luck has again hit us though with Junior injuring his calf and being ruled out for the rest of the season. With everybody else back and playing well, we are still in with a chance.

A big thanks to assistant Coach Joel Anderson for his input this season and to Tony Barca as our team manager. Thanks to Rob De Nardis and Sandringham Sports Physio who have done their best trying to keep our players on the floor. Thanks also to those behind the scenes, including Bill Runchey, Arran Batish, Sinisa Markovic for making my job easier and to Youth League coaches Mark Chivers and Parveen Batish for their assistance throughout the season.

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In 2014, we welcomed several new faces to the SEABL womens team, which included some young talent, Bridget, Amanda and Teyla and some experience ex-wnbl players, Mikaela and Michelle as well as Alana from the VYCW championship winning team.

SEABL women

It’s fair to say that the first 14 games of the season was disappointing and the team was not on the right path. In late June, the club decided to make a change to the coaching structure of the team and I proudly accepted the position of head coach.

In what was difficult circumstances for everyone, the team responded well to a new voice and new structures. After only winning one game in the first 14, we won 4 in a row including beating finals bound Brisbane. We finished the season 6-18 (5 wins out of our last 10). One of the highlights of the season was our game against Albury, which saw the team play a great brand of fast paced, high scoring basketball with a 106- 86 win. Micaela Cocks once again lead by example averaging 14pts, 5rbs & 4as and Hope Walker had one of her best years on the court averaging 17pts and 8rb’s. Good luck to Micaela in her WNBL season with Townsville and to Shannon who has been offered a development spot with Melbourne Boomers. Thankyou to the two assistant coaches, Michelle O’Conner and Warren Brown and also to team manager Pauline Bowley for all their time and effort throughout the season.

I am extremely proud to be coaching the SEABL women’s team and I look forward to creating a culture that links our junior girls program to our senior program in 2015 and beyond. I would like to thank Parveen (CEO), Bill (Head Coach) and the SBA board for their support and we look forward to getting back on court soon! GO SABRES

Paul Graham

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Once again it has been great to be involved with the Sabres program as VYC Men’s Coach. The support and available resources within the Basketball Operations wing of the program is sensational and a credit to all those involved.

I have and never will be one to publicly make excuses for a team’s performance on the Court. But I do think it is worth noting, if only to show the depth and ability of the whole group, that of the 22 in-season games, 19 players suited up at various stages through the year, with only two players suiting up for every game. The group were great ambassadors for the Club and displayed maturity and professionalism beyond their years representing the SBA. Our results indicated a below par year finishing with an 8 – 14 season. However, I believe we made good progress and were able to expose the group to the requirements to compete at this level.

BIG V men

Success plays a great part in all Coaches thoughts, but in this League we must not lose sight of the big picture - that is to prepare players for the next step in their Basketball pathway and the opportunity to play at Championship level. Five players, Alex Lemons, Matt Burke, Matt Crees, Jamie Cigognini and Matt Tolj all had opportunities to play in the Championship team throughout the season.

Many thanks also to Patch for his support as my Assistant Coach and to Leeanne Crees who did a great job as Team Manager.

I believe the future is bright for the Sabres. The tools are in place to continue the development pathway of the Champions of the future and I am excited by the young talent that is appearing through the Junior Programs.

Mark Chivers

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BIG V women

The 2014 season was a season of personal growth and player development. After winning the championship last year, this year’s team looked very different with 3 key players no longer in the team (Alana and Shannon to SEABL and Jessie KCamberwell).

We had 9 players return from 2013 and we welcomed senior players, Carly Douglas (Southern Penn) and Deanna Jolliffe (Frankston), as well as bringing in Kiara, Jess and Caitlin from within the sabres junior program. It’s an old cliché, however it was the best preseason I have ever been involved in as a coach with all players coming back with enthusiasm and training with intensity from day 1.

This enabled us to gel as a team very quickly and get some great results early on in the season. There were several players that stepped up this season to fill the void of those players that moved on. Kate Hore increased her averages from 2013 to 9.5 pts and 5.5 Rbs’, Cassie Hill doubled her minutes from 2013 and was impressive with 9pts & 6rbs and Isabelle Shea stepped into the captaincy, whilst averaging 8 pts and 4rbs. The girls finished third in the Terrill Conference, which is the 2nd year in a row they have made finals which is a great achievement, especially considering the changes in the team. They played out a hard fought final in Bendigo, going down by 9 but they did the Sabre Orange Army proud! Thankyou to Arran for coaching the last 8 games of the season and to Ryan for his continued support as AC. A big thankyou to Kate Shea, for her second year in a row as team manager!

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Canteen

2014 saw the first ever Sabres Canteen established at the entrance to the stadium. Items available include a selction of Streets Ice Creams, chocolates, lollies, Smiths and RedRock chips and the range of Schweppes drinks including Gatorade, Pepsi Max, Raspberry Lemonade and fruit juices.

We also have the Minke Drink frozen drink option which comes in a variety of flavours and has a 99% apple base which is approved for sale in schools and supported by the Federation of Canteen in schools.

The Locker Room

Basketball Operations

Another significant change that occurred within the Sabres organisation was the relocation and name change of our retail store. The Locker Room is now a basketball specific store that is fast becoming your one stop shop for all your basketball needs.

We have recently begun a relationship with PEAK sport, the fastest growing basketball company in the world. We stock their brand of basketball shoe and their signature shoe, the Tony Parker TP1 and TP9 has become quite popular and with good reason. We also stock the very competitively priced Newline Compression gear together with a variety of basketballs, drink bottles, socks, nets, coaches boards, ankle braces, tape and mouthguards at prices that are as good as if not better than you will find anywhere else.

We also sell our Sabres branded clothing, a number of junior domestic clubs uniforms, and we are on the lookout for further opportunities.

Be sure to check out the store next time you visit the stadium.

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C E L E B R A T I N G

U12 B1

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U12 B2

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C E L E B R A T I N G

U12 B3

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U12 B4

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U14 B4

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U12B1

After an exhaustive selection process in early November 2013, coach Michael Nowlan assembled a combination of existing young Sabres and boys new to the program and they clicked immediately. For the 2nd year running Michael’s 12.1’s team qualified for VC prior to Christmas.

Without the stress of qualifying for VC in the new year, the team started 2014 by giving league leaders Hawthorn, their biggest fright of the season so far leading them well into the second half before going down to them by 1 points in the dying minutes of the Grand Final of the Dandenong Tournament. This tournament and the practice rounds prior to the commencement of the VC season was a great barometer as to how the boys could perform.

Team Report U 12 Boys & Girls

The new structure and a focus on uptempo defensive pressure saw the Sabres boys become a competitive unit.

Hard training sessions each Sunday and Wednesday, combined with the specialised early morning sessions led

by Sinisa Markovic and Bill Runchey ensured the boys continued to develop the skills necessary to compete at the elite level. We are so lucky to have these two coaches in our club.

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With the team sitting at 3rd place midway through the VC season guaranteed the boys a place in the prestigious U/12 National Classic Tournament. This year was Michael 5th year in coaching and his 1st time to make the National Classic. Sabres 12.1’s came 3rd overall, with Dandenong coming 1st after winning the GF against Hawthorn 2nd place. What an amazing achievement – congratulations to the team, Michael and Wal!!!

This was great preparation for the second half of the VC season and ultimately shows the strength of this team. Michael has been working with the boys on different play combinations to really get them to lift in preparation for the 2nd half and lead up to the VC finals. After a few frustrating losses and the boys dropping down to 8th place, they seem to be turning the corner and with Michael’s patience, have won their last 2 games to place them now 4th on the ladder. With finals looming, I think the boys will do us all very proud.

Special thanks to the group of supportive parents who have gone above and beyond the cause to ensure their boys can compete at the highest level, assistant coach Wal, and of course Michael Nowlan who despite a massive workload will continue to get the absolute best out of the boys.

Mandy Hall - Team Manager U12B1

U12G1

At the start of the season when the U12.1 girls lined up for their first few games together, and you saw the team was made of up 5 returning second year players, 5 players in their first season of rep ball, and 4 bottom age players, the odds you could have got for these girls qualifying and starting the season in U/12 VC were very very long!

But through the hard work of Ian and Jacquie Leckie, qualify these girls did.

And all birthday celebrations were on track.

The first few practice games together as a team were a bit like watching a horror movie, but each new week the girls fronted up to training and games, and kept learning all thier new skills, learning more about each other, and what they each have to offer to the team.

Great season, Great fun, and a guarantee of 10 girls coming back to play Sabres next season.

The Australia Day Long weekend Tournament was where the team really started to click, and after a rough preChristmas period where the girls were just finding their feet, the New Year came and the team got on a winning run, which ended in a smashing of Bulleen at Waverly, and entry into VC. Besides the top level teams in the state who competed at the National Championship, the girls were competitive most weeks, to the point where they only missed out on staying in VC after the break by a couple of games. We’re now well on the way to finals in VC reserve, which in itself is an outstanding effort.

The following have been the teams strengths for the year, Kiana and Charlotte’s hard running and defensive pressure, Summers sweet shot and her never ending ball chasing, Tara’s great post up moves and mid-range shot, Lauren’s rebounding is amazing, should have been a Centre Half Forward for the Dees as never drops a ball above her head, Jemma’s long bombs, when she has the hot hand get out of her way, Maya’s left hand runs down the court while charging to the hole, Sassy and Lily’s ability to find open space low on the key in offence, followed by nothing but net, and Kalani’s slash and drive’s to the basket.

Every one of the girls should be proud of how far they have come this year, but when you take into account all the hard work and effort Ian and Jacquie have put in, it really doesn’t come as much of a surprise. Their efforts on and off the court has been amazing, and was a huge benefit to the girls.

Think I mentioned this last year, but one other major highlight this year, is the amount of sugar the girls have consumed this past year, whether it be someone’s birthday, someone had a good game, someone’s going away etc etc, they have eaten more Cup Cakes & Cake, more lollies and sour lollies, more chips, sluprees and Macca’s than nearly any bunch of girls I have witnessed, no wonder they are always buzzing around.

Ian and Jacquie would also like to thank the fantastic group of parents that supported them during the whole season, whether it be Yufang, Sharon, Shelley or Sean helping out on court at training, Sally teaching the girls how to strengthen their bodies, Duncan’s match reports, which included interviews with each girl after a game, or parents providing game stats.

Or Anna making sure we were all heading to the right stadium, with all kids picked up on time, eaten and ready go. Also making sure all Restaurants were booked, and everyone had a seat.

GO SABRES!!

U12B2

Soon after the team was established, one player dropped out and was not replaced, leaving only nine on the squad and even fewer when others were nursing injuries or enjoying extended holidays!

Let me introduce you to our great group of boys .. ...

There are the 4 bottom agers - Bailey, Hugo G, Luis and Mason. Luis and Bailey, our point guards, are the smallest but probably the fastest on court. Mason is a solid player who is good with the outside shots and Hugo has a reputation for remaining calm under pressure. There is Josh, our strong man who can power his way to the hoop though a crowd of opponents. Ollie and Hugo Lynch are 2 of our tales and can usually be found under the hoop ready to pop in a shot or to grab a rebound.

Griff and Aussie are the dependable all rounders, who seemingly come in from nowhere to back up their teammates and drop a basket or several!

The boys played hard to earn one of the last spots in the Met 1 League and started the season strong. They also made it to the Grand Final for their section in the Eltham- Dandenong tournament but sadly lost to the Melbourne Tigers first team. A really good effort. Unfortunately, despite a number of nailbiters, there haven’t been many wins since then and the team will not be in the Finals.

Thanks go to Brian for coaching and to the parents for ferrying their boys around and cheering them on from the sidelines.

Good luck to everyone for next season.

Sarah Garrow and Monique Murphy.

U12G2

What an amazing year the U12G2 have had. We started the year with fitness sessions on the beach, a team dinner hosted by Assistant Coach, Alison Randall and the Sabres Disco! The girls had plenty of time to get to know each other off the court and create new friendships.

Only two of the nine girls on the team had played a season of representative basketball before. The games have been incredibly close which meant the parents and coaches were always on edge!

The girls have all made an enormous improvement and played really well as a team. It is unfortunate that the season has come to an end so quickly.

The U12G2 started with Albina, Alannah, Cammy, Eleni, Jemima, Katelyn, Kobie, Hannah and Sami. We were lucky enough to recruit Charli in February but sadly we lost Sami due to injury in May.

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Thank you to Alison Randall for stepping up to help Andrew coach the girls.

Thank you to Coach Andrew Shepherd for giving up your time with your own family and friends to coach our girls.

The girls have thoroughly enjoyed their season and appreciate your amazing coaching skills

U12B3

Coach Peter Cook and assistant Issy Cook reunited with their former U12.4 boys, Lachlan Cook, Benjamin Saliba and Luke Di Pietrantonio forming the nucleus of the U12.3 boys team. They were joined by William Brown, Taylor Clarkson, Kai Dimittina, Jordie Michell, Jasper Peppard, Kane Wilson and Flynn Young, all of whom were new to the Sabres Representative programme.

Team Report U 12 Boys & Girls

The team’s excitement, enthusiasm and expectations were high during the first round of grading. Apart from a first round draw with Camberwell 2, the boys finished undefeated in their pool. It was a great way to end the year, and afforded us high hopes for success in the upcoming Australia Day Tournament.

Eight of the ten boys were able to participate in the Tournament . The team was undefeated until their demise to eventual Tournament victors, Melbourne 3, in the match prior to the finals. Our loss in the semi- final to Knox 3 was only our second, but it was a decisive end to our finals campaign. The lesson to be taken from the Tournament was that while team bonding exercises are important and valuable, those involving pancakes and bowling are best held at times more appropriate than immediately preceding an important match!

The boys regrouped for the second phase of grading, but unfortunately it delivered the team’s first round of successive losses (albeit by some very small margins in some cases). The highlight of this phase was the one point victory over our Tournament nemesis, Melbourne 3, resulting in both teams being placed in Regional 1 East, and facing off the following week in the Round 1 of Competition.

Unfortunately, despite the boy’s continued confidence, determination and enthusiasm, the four-point loss to Melbourne 3 in Round 1 was a precursor to a season delivering mixed results, which were either by very close or very decisive margins. At the time of writing, the team has had 4 victories, and are 7th on the ladder.

Regardless of the season’s results, the boys have continued to remain positive and passionate, and are to be commended for their continued commitment and attitude. All of the boys have gained valuable experience and knowledge in their quest for success this year, and this will no doubt hold them in good stead as quality competitors in the future.

On behalf of the U12.3 Parent Group and boys, many thanks to Peter and

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Izzy for their continued effort, time and perseverance as Coaches this season.

We know that the season has been challenging at times, but we also hope that it has also been a rewarding one, too.

Many thanks, also, to the Parent Group for your continued support of the boys and Coaches, for your scoring assistance, and for ensuring that the boys were always pumped and ready to go each week.

Here’s wishing you all success in the future!

Lee Michell – Team Manager

U12G3

Reflecting back on the season, it has been a very steep learning curve for not only the girls, but also the coach and arguably the parents! The coach, Zoe Fagan (mum of one of the players), did not step into the coaching role until after the initial try-out phase, so during the practice matches not only were the girls trying to learn each other’s names … so was the coach. Needless to say, there were some very funny communication breakdowns during this period.

After surviving the practice matches, and getting to know each other a bit better, the hard work really began. Of the ten girls selected in the team, nine are new to the Sabres program and more importantly, new to the concepts of running offence and playing team defence. Grading season began, and I think everyone involved was surprised by how competitive the team were proving to be. The girls’ willingness to play as a team and their defensive tenacity saw them finish the first grading phase with 1 win, 1 loss and 1 nail-biting draw. Unfortunately percentage saw the girls miss out on the opportunity to vie for a spot in Metro 2 by the narrowest of margins.

The Eltham-Dandenong tournament gave the girls (and the parents) greater insight into the rigors of representative basketball. At the end of a very hot weekend of basketball the girls had managed to come away with 2 wins and 3 losses – a positive warm-up for the second grading phase. The second phase of grading saw the girls continue to grow and develop as a team, and their competitive performances resulted in them being placed in Regional 1 East.

Zoe brought a great depth of basketball knowledge and skill to the team that has been reflected in each girl’s game and the team as a whole. Zoe has worked hard with the girls on developing correct shooting technique, understanding the importance of playing team defence, learning the Sabres offensive principles (specifically passing and cutting), improving their decision-making, bettering their ball-handling skills and basically working and playing hard. As a result the girls have beaten every team in the competition with the exception of the top team (and one of the top 5 teams who the girls have only played once – the plan is to beat them in the last game of the season!).

What is great about this season is that the girls’ hard work, commitment and willingness to buy-in to the ‘Sabres way’ has been rewarded. The girls have been entrenched in the top 5 all season and, with 2 games remaining, are guaranteed of a finals berth – Go girls!

Much of this success can be attributed to great defensive play which has seen the girls keep the majority of opposition teams to season-low scores.

While this season has been a steep learning curve for the coach and players, the parents have also had to adjust to the joys of tackling peak hour traffic on a Friday night and those 8am Sunday morning training sessions!

Representative basketball requires the commitment of not only the players, but their families and it has been fabulous to see the support the parents have shown not only their respective children, but the entire team. This parental support is reflected in the girl’s passion and enthusiasm for basketball, and their willingness to always train hard and play hard.

So after 28 games, hours and hours of training, one game on an undersized court (gotta love the back courts at Kilsyth), a tough tournament, a great trip going “On the Road” to Ballarat with the SEABL teams and lots hard work and commitment by both the girls and Zoe, I think it is safe to say the 12.3 girls have had a very successful and enjoyable season with Sabres. Thank you so much Zoe and well done team!

U12B4

Well, what a great first season it has been for the boys and their families.

Following on from a runner-up finish at the Eltham-Dandy tournament, the team moved into the season proper with confidence and some good results followed. By the mid-point of the season we had only lost one game and were setting our sights on top spot, which we duly achieved. The good form has continued since then and despite some close shaves the boys have kept their winning form going. Unfortunately we hit a speed hump in round 16 against the 2nd placed team which cost us top spot on the ladder however two wins in the final two matches will see us finish either 1st or 2nd which would be a great result! The fantastic thing with this team is their ability to tough it out when things get close and hopefully that will see us do well in the finals.

The improvement in each boy over the season is remarkable and a tribute to their application and ability. Massive thanks must go to Coach Angus who has worked hard to develop the boys into not only better players, but also good sportsmen & team players. In particular the improvement in the defensive side of their game has been huge, along with the continual development of their individual skill sets. Also thanks to Bill, Sinisa and Peter Cook for their help throughout the season, and of course big thanks to the families who have supported the team so well at each game.

Graeme Ralph – Team Manager

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U14B1

It has been a great season of development for this 14-1 Boys side.

High expectations and goals were set for the group and there have been many challenges along the way.

We made the VC grouping before Christmas and embarked on another month of practice games to begin 2014. It was clear that playing at our very best, we could match it with the very best teams in the state, if not the country. The major hurdle was finding consistency of effort, skills and teamwork for the entire game from the entire group.

Finishing the first nine rounds of VC with a record of 5-4, we made it into the overall VC group for the remainder of the season. This is a great achievement in itself, to be ranked amongst the top 10 teams in the state. It has been a tough season, with some big losses to the top teams, but a great learning experience and developmental period for the boys moving forward. We’re on the edge of playoff contention and could cause some headaches.

A special thankyou to Andrew Stavropoulos for his work as Assistant Coach. The boys have really appreciated the feedback and guidance, and as coach I can’t thank you enough for your support, advice and experience.

Team Report U 14 Boys & Girls

Also to Tracy for her organisation, communication and support as Team Manager. It has certainly made the group run so much smoother and helped organise the families each and every week.

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Finally, I would like to congratulate the team on their endeavour, effort to strive to be better and simply creating a really enjoyable atmosphere to be around. It has been an absolute pleasure to coach you. Best of luck in your future basketball endeavours and certainly continue to push yourselves to be the very best you can be.

Phil Thomas

U14G1

– A year of new challenges and change

A year of new friendships, challenges and change. The 14.1G VJBL season started with 10 girls brought together from different representative basketball teams with some who had played together in the 2012/13 season – Gracie and Issy from the 14.1s, Ella C, Flo, Joey and Steph from 14.2s, Milly and Abbie new to Sabres from Frankston along with two bottom age players Flick and Daisy from 12.1s.

Jo Wood began the season as Head coach, drawing on her extensive playing and coaching experience with 10 teenage & pre-teenage hormonal girls transferring her knowledge and expertise as a player who played at an elite level.

After a difficult grading phase, the girls learned to play basketball together with new teammates, just missing out on VC to play the season in VJBL 1 (Metro 1). The girls accepted their graded position in true style with great enthusiasm and hard work for their shared basketball journey ahead. The girls have secured their position in Metro 1 and have never looked back as they have developed their individual skills, team skills and bonding together as a group of talented players. As I write this article the team has lost one game for the season and are now forging ahead to what will be a challenging finals series.

The team has had as much excitement on the court as they have had off the court, with coach Jo Wood finishing up in June to go and safely deliver Baby number 2 and Sandra Hilford (who thought she had signed up as assistant coach) quickly and successfully step in as coach for the remainder of the season. Over the season the girls have celebrated in style off the court with team get togethers of different kinds 12th and 13th birthday parties, outings to the beach, Yoghurt Bars, and Tenpin Bowling. Even the parents managed to get together for lunch while the girls bowled.

The girls participated at an extremely high level during the Queen’s Birthday Nunawading Tournament, playing in the A grade section against some VC teams. During the tournament the girls had many successes coupled with some nail biting games making it to the semi-finals. I think all would agree the highlight of the tournament was the girls beating some teams that had graded higher in VC. Our team in true basketball style has not been without injury throughout the season. In fact I believe every team member has been plagued by injury at some stage; this however has not stopped the girls from enjoying their shared love of basketball, training hard together, playing hard together, having fun together while sharing their basketball journey together.

Overall a good development season had by all the girls, preparing the top age girls for the season ahead at the next level and the bottom age girls to be leaders of the future.

U14B2

The Sabres U14.2 team with a couple of handy inclusions from the U14.1’s, Samuel Taulapiu and James Eadie, participated in the 2014 Nunawading Spectres Queens Birthday Weekend Tournament. It was a long 2 ½ days for the players and parents but at the end the boys were victorious against some very strong competition. As evidenced by the results below there were some close calls along the way, with 5 of the 7 games being decided by 6 points or less.

There were also close calls of a different kind with both coaches Matt Nunn and Dwayne Cross arriving at the wrong Knox Stadium on the Saturday and then Dwayne going to the wrong Ringwood venue on the Sunday. Clearly in car navigation is only as good as the one entering the address!!!

U14G2

It’s been great to see the improvement over the season by the girls that regularly attend training. The commitment and dedication they have shown has been a real credit to them.

A big thank you to our team manager Vanessa. To the parents, thanks for your support.

To Sally Gittus, thanks for your time in helping the girls with the core strength exercises every Sunday. To Bill and Sinisa, thanks for the care you have for our wellbeing and helping us to improve. Lastly a huge thank you to Sandra for her support every training session and words of encouragement and for passing the girls to me in such good shape.

Craig Hill.

The under 14 girls. What a great bunch of girls they were. Holly was always aggressive towards the ball. Chloe has a freakish good shot. Hailey could bring the ball down the court with incredible skill. Siena (Gitti) showed her great defence throughout the season.

Nikki always had a beautiful shot technique. Jemima would drive to the basket hard.

Sienna C always used her athletic abilities to her advantage when playing and Sienna K (Sis) was amazing at intercepting the ball. We started the season off with Sandra Hilford temporarily coaching us and we managed to get into Metro 3 with her help.

Then Craig Hill came along with great enthusiasm for the team. He has helped the team gain confidence in ourselves and improve our skills. Craig’s hard coaching improved me as a player. We had our ups and downs this season just like everyone else. We have grown as a team and played some excellent basketball throughout the season.

A big thanks to my team, Sandra and Craig for making this season so enjoyable for me.

Immy Tozer # 7

This season was amazing. I met a new bunch of very nice girls and had awesome coaches starting off with Sandra Hilford and then Craig Hill who trained us really hard and taught us so much. I learned a lot but I improved on my ball handling skills the most.

With Siena Gittus’s awesome box-outs, Immy’s fantastic rebounds, Chloe’s & Nikki’s great shots, Sienna Courtney’s

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great drives, Holly’s 3’s, Jemima’s driving to the basket and Sienna Kelly’s amazing intercepts and goaling, we got through a great season. I am going to miss these girls so much next season!

Hailey Duncan #8

This season has been an extraordinary season with having a very good start and then throughout the season having our little ups and downs, but I have definitely learnt a massive amount this season more than any other season.

Craig has been a terrific coach teaching us basketball skills but also life skills.

I have had an absolute ball with my team this year being with so many amazing girls and having a sensational time with them on and off the court.

This has been a tough year not winning too many games but I believe we have put in our all and no other team has had as much fun as us. Thank you so much for an awesome season Sabres.

Sienna Courtney #9 My first season as a Sabres player has been such a great experience because I have met so many new people and my Basketball has improved a lot. I have liked learning new drills.

Thanks to Sandra and Craig for coaching and Vanessa for being the Team Manager.

Chloe Carter # 15

I really enjoyed being coached by Craig this season, and although we did not have a very successful season according to the score board, I learnt many new things and had the opportunity to play with some of the nicest girls.

Team Report U 14 Boys & Girls

Nicola Caine # 33

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I have enjoyed the season. I have met great friends and have enjoyed the team spirit and having fun together.

Sienna Kelly # 41

I was happy to be selected in the 14.2s with a great bunch of girls and I have formed a lovely relationship with every single one of them. We hit the jackpot with getting Craig for a coach, Craig had patience while coaching our team and I think everyone would agree he did a great job at it. I would like to thank everyone for making this season very enjoyable

Holly Davies # 45

This season has been so much fun.

Craig has taught me a lot, but I feel that my defence has improved the most.

Even though this season has not been too successful as far as ‘wins’ go, I still had lots of fun at training, at the games and on our trip to Canberra. Thank you Craig for being such a great coach and thank you to all the girls who have made this season so much fun.

Siena Gittus #51

This season, being my first year of season of rep, has helped my ball skills and shooting and overall skill in basketball. The coaches I’ve had have made a big impact, and I must thank them very much. I have loved being in a team with girls that all have the same passion as myself and committed attitude towards our games. We are

all there for each other and all our games would not be close without our teamwork.

Thanks to Vicki Barlow for being the best team manager, keeping everyone informed and on the straight & narrow when it came to scoring / spotting.

U14B3

We wish each player the best for the future as they strive to be the best they can be.

Jemima Padley #53

We started the season with high expectations and a goal of making Metro 1 or 2. Our initial pooling / ranking made this a difficult challenge.

The boys were extremely competitive, however were still to learn how to win a game in tight situations, narrowly losing 2 games late in the crossover pools, seeing the team slip into regional.

As we head into the final couple of games of the season, the boys sit precariously on the cusp of making the finals. The chances are slim and they rely on others winning and losing to open the door.

The season has been a case of what if’s…. This team certainly has the potential, demonstrating they can be in the mix, having defeated the top three teams during the season, only to drop games to more lowly sides by the narrowest of margins.

The team welcomed three boys new to the program and is an even mix of Top & Bottom age players. What has been pleasing to see throughout the season is each of the boys develop, the new boys adjusting to the structure & discipline required to play representative basketball, and the bottom age boys continue to grow and adjust to playing against bigger bodies.

Two key highlights of the season include the team traveling to Adelaide to play in the annual Easter Classic.

The team played against teams from Adelaide, Townsville, eventually playing Knox 2 in the Grand Final. In a hard fought game, our Sabres boys eventually won the game by two points making it 6 wins in a row throughout the tournament. That winning streak extended to 11 games, with a further 5 straight wins on Friday nights.

The other highlight for the team, is being the toughest defensive outfit in our competition. Whilst our win / loss record could have been a little more positive, the ‘Against’ is the best in the competition. This can be attributed to the boys setting defensive goals each game to try and limit our opposition to 25-30 points. We have achieved this many times, however we often found it challenging to make this score ourselves.

In terms of player & team development, after 25+ games the boys now can run the club structured offence competently, continue to improve their skills and have developed the killer instinct to seize the moment, win a game when coming from behind, and importantly play as a team.

A special thank you to the parents (& siblings) who have supported their sons throughout the season. The trip to Adelaide was a great way to get to know each other a little better and enjoy each others company in a social environment.

Coach - Steve Fagan

U14G3

What a fabulous year the girls have had and they have had heaps of fun whilst being really supportive to each other.

The mix of the side was made up of 4 top age & 6 bottom age girls with all different experience levels & a good blend of talls, mids & smalls.

The challenge was to have them develop their skills, contribute to the team plan & hopefully win a few games.

Congratulations girls you successfully took up the challenge and have had a fantastic year representing Sabres.

Everybody has improved significantly in most aspects of their basketball and have adapted to the plays worked on relentlessly throughout the many training sessions & on game days.

Credit must be given to the coach Dan Maher who has been ably supported by assistant coach Lisa Nicholson.

They have shown lots of consistency and passion to have the individuals and team develop and the girls responded brilliantly.

Thank you Dan and Lisa.

After a few practice & grading games the team started to learn each others names and we hit the Australia Day tournament not knowing how it would all go. After a long and tiring weekend we found ourselves in a semi-final to lose a close one to the eventual winners in our section. It was a fantastic weekend with the girls bonding really well & confident that we could be a good team.

Well we did have a fantastic year with everyone improving and enjoying their basketball and making the finals.

Congratulations Girls & well done.

U14B4

This season has been one full of challenges for the boys. We lost Blake to a broken leg at the end of crossover games, and Kareem to a broken wrist with his other wrist badly sprained.

With a broken leg, wrist and an assortment of other injuries, we were ready for 2013 to be over.

The Australia Day tournament was a successful event for the boys, coming Runner-Up to a very skillful and tall McKinnon team.

In early 2014, we were still plagued by injuries and illness; the positive coming out of this time was the introduction of Keelan, our assistant coach.

With a full team after the Queens birthday weekend, we were excited to

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finally put the full team to the test, but it didn’t last long before further injury struck the team as Kareem broke his wrist again.

Although a challenging year the boys showed resilience and commitment, improving both as players and people.

Thank you to the families and coaches.

Bec & Nigel

U14G4

In reflecting on the season, the girls can be proud of the tenacity they have shown. Although at the time of writing this report it seems that we’ll fall one game short of making finals, finishing 6th. As with many teams we contended with the numerous other demands on the player’s time- school camps, concerts and functions, as well as the usual injuries and illnesses. Having only 9 players we felt this even more than most.

Initially in the season the girls had some challenges trying to gel with each other through their grading rounds. Eventually they were graded in Regional section 4 which luckily held for all fairly local games against similarly skilled opposition. The main difference between ourselves and the main challenges was our lack of size.

The girls tried to hold firm, but in the end size often made the difference in our games.

Our start to the season was fantastic winning the first 3 games, although we soon found out that 2 out of the 3 were to be the lower ranked teams. We then lost the next 3 games against 3 teams who would continue to hold themselves in the top rungs of the ladder. We then won 2 out of our next 3 to turn at the halfway mark 5-4 and sitting in 5th position.

Unfortunately our next month held for some tough games, losing 3 games in a row, fortunately just getting over the line against McKinnon before the mid season holiday break. The break seemed to have done well for the girls, with the girls coming out since beaten several of the closely ranked teams and having an unlucky draw against the highly placed Waverley.

Throughout the season the girls learnt to respond to coach Elliot’s directions of “cover split”, “ball pressure”, and “take it hard at them!” At no stage during the year did the team rely on one player to carry them, everyone found a way to contribute. It was great that at the end of each game there was different girls who’d had ‘that sort of night!’ The even better result for the girls was how well they formed as a team, developing good friendships on and off the court.

One of the highlights for the season for the girls was their tournament experience at Dandenong. For many of the girls it was their first experience at playing in a tournament, although the results on day 1 didn’t reflect this, the girls winning all of their games.

Unfortunately their inexperience came through on the Sunday with the girls losing a couple of games, and hence

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missing finals. Although missing finals, the girls loved the experience and it certainly helped the girls develop both with team basketball and personally with each other.

Over the course of the season each player developed their skills in the key areas of defence, offensive intensity and shooting. As a team they developed in their understanding of ‘help defence’ and executing smarter ‘team offence.’

They certainly had great attitudes to working hard on improving themselves throughout the season.

Congratulations to the girls on a wonderful season. Although finishing just short of making finals, the last month of basketball has shown the development of the team as a whole.

They have been unbeaten over the last month, beating a finals contender and drawing with another. If only they were able to get over the line in a few of those close fought games earlier in the season.

It was extremely satisfying to see how much the players grew as individuals and as a team over the season, and how much they enjoyed training and playing for each other. We thank them all for their dedication, enthusiasm, laughter and spirit. We also thank Elliot for his dedication to the improvement of the girls throughout the season. Well done Julia and Beth on your first seasons of rep ball. Also congrats to Zoe, Sacha, Niamh, Hayley, Maya, Meg and Abbey on your dedication to the Sabres uniform.

Good luck to your future basketball ambitions girls.

Vincent Snell

U14B5

What a rollercoaster the 14.5 boys have experienced this season – excitement was abound when the boys came together at the beginning of the season along with Coaches Paul and Tony who were eager to whip the boys into shape. Grading placed the team into Regional 4 and before we knew it the season was underway.

The boys reached their first high in rounds 6 and 7 with a couple of wins which built confidence and excitement.

Unfortunately the next few games were very close but did not result in wins. Through determination and hard work the boys are coming home strong beating teams from the top of the ladder and I am positive if there were another couple of games in the season they would definitely have been in finals contention.

Though the boys did not reach the finals they really worked hard both on and off the court and were a credit to Paul and Tony who instilled a great sense of sportsmanship and discipline within the team. A number of team bonding sessions including trampolining, paintball and the inaugural parent’s v boy’s game really consolidated the team and formed great friendships for both team mates and parents.

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On the

COURT

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On the COURT

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On the COURT

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It all began in July 1974 with an idea to start a basketball club. A meeting was held at Basil Cervi’s house with Chris Bennett, Brian Files, Pat Carey, Bob Hehir, Joe Cervi and Basil Cervi in attendance. At the end of that meeting it was decided that Basil Cervi, Chris Bennett and Brain Files would go ahead and form the Sandringham Basketball Club.

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In August of 1974 another meeting was held between Basil, Chris and Brain and $150 dollars was put in to start the new club. Junior clinics were advertised in the local paper to gather interest and support for the fledgling project, with four clinics being held between August and September. The clinics were held at the Sandringham Youth Club but at the time there was only one ring at the venue. Basil arranged to have a second ring installed at the cost of one dozen bottles of beer!

40 years of Sabres

As a result of the clinics, Basil organised some games to be played.

The original venue was to be the Youth Club, but when Basil arrived he found the locks had been changed and the venue was no longer available. He quickly organised matches to be played outdoors at Highett High School. It was a hot and windy day, but things were underway! A couple of weeks later the games were moved to the Memorial Hall in Waltham Street, Sandringham.

Despite the holes in the floor, the plaster falling off the walls and the fact that the court would be less than half the size of a normal court, Basil saw the potential and convinced Chris Bennett that this would be the best place to start out as our ‘home’. The site was chosen over four others offered to Basil by Councillor Paul White.

Basil was given a grant of $1000 to fix the place up and get it right for competition. Floors were repaired, sanded and painted, lights, window guards and gas heaters were installed.

On September 21, 1974 the first official games were played at the Memorial Hall in Waltham Street, Sandringham and the Sandringham Basketball Club was born!

Move forward 40 years and the Southern Basketball Association has grown quite a bit since the early days.

We now have almost a combined 800 domestic and representative teams and continue to grow and provide opportunity for all ages, genders and abilities to play the sport of Basketball.

Thousands of people come through our doors each week. Many people still fondly remember the early days and the good times and fun that was has.

We have seen the Association grow and flourish, many lifelong friendships have been formed along the way too.

Congratulations to the SBA on reaching 40 successful years with many more wonderful years ahead too.

Yours in basketball, Steven Lunardon, President SBA

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U16 B1

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U16 B2

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U16 B3

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U16 B4

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Referees

U16 B5

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Some old faces!

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U16B1

It was an uncertain start to the year with the team just making VC, securing the last position in a nail biter. But since then the progression and improvement has been beyond expectations.To sharpen up their skills and fitness the boys completed in the Dandenong/Eltham tournament and had an intensive basketball trip to Tasmania.

Half way through the season found the team sitting fifth out of the 20 teams in the VC pool. This meant that the boys would play out the remainder of the season with the top ten under 16 Boys teams in the Victorian Champions pool. This also meant that they were invited to participate in the prestigious The National Junior Classic basketball tournament which would see the top eight teams in Victoria compete against other teams from interstate and/or overseas. Considering they were playing the top 16 teams nationally, eventually finishing seventh was a respectable result and they should be very proud of their efforts. I think that being invited and competing in a tournament like the Junior Classic will be an experience that the boys, coaches, and parents will never forget.

Team Report U 16 Boys & Girls

Two games to go in the season and the team are currently fifth on the ladder and are set to compete in VC finals- this is an outstanding effort by the boys and coaches and we are all very proud of how the team has performed this season.

Thanks to the parents for all the pickups and drop offs and travels to all over Melbourne and regional Victoria and your help though the year. Thank you also to Nathan and Grant on all the advice, time, effort, skills and wisdom that you have imparted to the team.

Congratulations to the fine young gentlemen of this team, you are a credit to your parents, the Sabres Basketball club and yourselves. Well done- Ben, Jack, Kai, Ryan, Bailey, Vinnie, Finlay, Harrison, Daniel and Dev.

Sean Callahan & Liz Heath

U16G1

In the movie Coach Carter, the coach keeps asking one of his players, ‘What is your greatest fear.’ Eventually, the player works it out, and says: Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you… As we let our own lights shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.

This quote sums up the Under 16VC girls team from 2014 as good as any.

As a group, we, coaches and players, currently lack the courage to be the outstanding side that we could be.

2014 was a season of achievements and discontinuity. Much of the discontinuity could not be helped as players made State sides in basketball and netball, had school camps, injuries, sicknesses and holidays. These disruptions are out of the players’ control.

As a coach, where I failed this year was in developing in the players the courage to be outstanding. The things that we can control as players and coaches are our understanding of the game and the discipline to play it how we want to, our competitiveness in games and at training, and our desire to draw the best out of our teammates and club mates. At round 15 of the season, we still settle for ‘close enough is good enough’ and ‘we don’t want to make our teammates look bad at training by beating them.’

A great North American philosopher, Drew Hyland, talks about the links of competition and friendship. He says that real competition is both fierce and friendly because my performance should draw out the best performance possible out of my teammates and my opponents- and the person who doesn’t commit to excellence is not a friend. Great teams have great players that refuse to accept mediocrity from their teammates, because such mediocrity does not allow the great player to excel. Michael Jordan became a greater player when his teammates improved their games.

There were team highlights along the way, with wins over Melbourne by 30 with seven players, Werribee at Werribee with 6.5 players (one returning from injury), Kilsyth by 50 to make the top half of VC, and Diamond Valley to make the Classic Tournament.

The team will probably make the VC finals this year, which places them in the best 12 teams in the country. We could be the best team in the countryour players have the potential to be, and our results against the very best teams in the state, Bulleen, Dandenong and Melbourne, suggest that potential.

We have not met a team all year that we could not play better basketball than.

The question is, ‘Do we have the courage to be an outstanding team?’

U16B2

The U16.2 boys set out at the end of last year to achieve playing in the highest division possible. This went well early on but we struggled through some tough games and fell out of contention for Metro 1. However we worked hard over the holidays individually to come out strong in 2014, winning all games to make it into Metro 4.

Getting great contributions from a number of different players has seen our team go through some ups and downs throughout season 2014 and leaves us in 6th position heading into the last 2 regular season games, needing 2 wins to force their way into the top 5.

We have had many great games against some of the top teams in the division, but sadly we have also had some very poor games against some of the weaker teams.

The boys have been working hard on lifting their level of on court communication, work rate and turning their positive individual work into results on the court. We hope to finish the regular season strong and make a hard push into the finals.

U16G2

Coach Arran Batish Assistant Coach Sue Humble The girls had an indifferent start through the grading phase and eventually were placed in Vic Metro 3.

There is a good blend of girls in the team with 7 top age and 3 bottom age.

The girls all get along very well, work hard at training and are playing well as a team.

During the regular season the girls started off with a heart stopping draw vs Dandenong at home. By the end of the first term they were one win, one draw & 2 losses. A tough start with 3 out of the 4 games away.

During the April school holidays 6 team members headed off to Tasmania for the Sabres Road trip. The group consisted of 39 girls, coaches and a group of awesome parents, spending 5 days, training, playing and being a great support to the Senior Mens SEABL team on the Saturday night. A great time were had by all.

After Tassie, the girls seemed refreshed and were ready to go, with 4 wins and a narrow loss to Broadmeadows away, saw them sitting on top of their pool.

Only 3 points were separating the first team to the ninth team on the ladder.

Most of us would agree that the season has been intense and moved quite quickly. Before we knew it we have one game to go and playing for a spot in the finals.

A big thank you to coaches, Arran Batish & Sue Humble giving their time, experience and energy to the girls to not only compete but to also enjoy their basketball. All the very best to all the players next season.

We will all miss the after game dash to Maccas.

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U16B3

The U16.3 Boys team have been an amazing bunch. They have played through a season of disappointment - from not making it into one of the Metro leagues, to a slew of injuries, to not having enjoyed too many wins. But, despite all that, they have remained positive, stood together and fought as a team.

Through the season, the word ‘Resilience’ best summed them up as a group. That is still true, but on top of that resilience, there is also maturity, steadfastness and the sheer to keep on going.

In their group, they played the number one teams from Keysborough, Port Phillip, Western Port and Chelsea, these teams obviously had the best players from their regions, mostly top age, extremely skillful and usually with at least two players taller than any of ours. Add to that teams from traditional powerhouses like Knox and Frankston, who field strong teams all the way through, and you have a seriously strong competition. Most games were a fight right through to the final minutes and while our boys didn’t end up on the winning side, the experience garnered, the fight shown and the desire to keep on pushing themselves, will hold them in good stead next season and indeed, for years ahead.

While this article is a lasting reflection on the season and will be there in black and white ready to remind the boys of the year and its disappointment, it is more important for them to remember the positives, the life-lessons that they have learnt and the friendships that have been cemented.

In every adversity, there is tremendous learning to be gained. Each of the boys in the 2014 Sabres U16.3 Boys team have built on their character, shown tremendous resolve and made their parents exceptionally proud. Well done boys!

of the top teams from the top clubs, and made it into the VJBL Metro4 league, only just missing Metro3. The first half of the season was superb, with our team being in the top half of the ladder for that period with a few big wins and a few very narrow losses. The Tasmanian Road Trip was another highlight with the majority of the team attending.

However, the second half of the season proved to be more challenging with the competition seeming to get stronger, faster and bigger as the season progressed. Overall a successful and enjoyable year which provided the more senior team members the opportunity to provide leadership roles, and a great development year for those who will be tackling U16 again next year. Some great friendships developed, and we wish all the team good luck for next season. A big thank you to the dedicated coaches and parents. If anyone is disappointed that we just missed finals I will leave you with a quote from Michael Jordan on the value of perseverance… “I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times I’ve been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why i succeed.”

Dean Elliott, U16.3 Girls Team Manager

U16B4

After vigorous weeks of tryouts, teams had been chosen. Peter Legetti had been appointed coach of the Under 16s/4. Peter is a passionate coach who has a great knowledge of the game.

We started grading games and soon started a pattern of winning against Regional 3 sides but struggling against Regional 2 sides.

After grading was over we were placed in Regional 2, along with 16/3s a bit of a surprise but we were ready for the challenge.

Thank you to Andre Solomons for coaching our boys and instilling in them such a positive work ethic. On behalf of the club and the team, thank you too to the parents of the U16.3 boys for bringing them to every training session and supporting them so wonderfully at games. Your friendship during the season has helped make it all the more enjoyable.

We set ourselves a target of winning 5 games. Early in the season we got beaten convincingly by a few sides , but as the season went on we started to become more competitive.

U16G3

We have had a great season and are extremely proud of them. Highlights of our season, 2 draws against the 16/3s , made us sure we were in the right division.

The U16.3 Girls have had a great season. Many of the girls hadn’t played together before with the team being a mix of experienced top age players, some new Sabres players with great potential, and some younger bottom age talent. The Dandenong tournament really helped the girls gel as a team and was a real turning point. Following this tournament, the girls played some of their best basketball throughout the grading winning games against some

As I put this report together we had won 2 and drawn 4. Every player in our team has improved, due to their hard work and the desire to be the best they can be.

Playing McKinnon with 4 players, only 16 points down with 10 minutes to go.

We were so proud of those guys.

Watching a great group of young men develop into a really good side.

Annette Coote, Team Manager 16/4

U16G4

Despite the differing styles across the team, the girls U16. 4’s and coach Shea landed a finals berth for season 2014.

Their wins have never come easily, success in the finals series won’t come any easier and particularly in recent weeks the team has been plagued with serious injury, illness and bad luck. In the last two games of the season the opposition threw not one or two but several three pointers in the second half which becomes very hard to claw back, however to their credit the team never showed signs of defeat.

The season started with lapses of focus, usually around the third quarter that cost them better results, however under the tutelage of Coach Shea this behaviour tapered off and is rarely seen with the team now playing a fully focussed end to end game. As I eluded to earlier, the girls are fighters, in the last game of the season Fitzpatrick played with a chipped bone in the hand and Ady battled with severe asthma for over two weeks, both scored, and both ended the game physically far less than comfortable. Cotton played an amazing last game of the season where given her slight build her defense proved formidable against larger players. Her development in defense and the uplift in shooting was clearly noticeable and progressive with each game since mid year. Throughout the year Mottram, Fitzpatrick and Slattery have been consistent if not cornerstones for the teams offence, each week either setting up the play or driving the ball through the opposition defense.

Credit for their development and game strategy must go to Coach Shea where each week the game plan was worked through with the team before the game even started, then refined and adapted as required during the game. I am certain there were frustrating moments for the coach but you would never know because like a true professional she got on with the job.

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speed heightens and is generally the one who comes away better off which leads me to McConville who as another backbone to the team’s defense, over and over again found and made the opportunities to bring the ball back into offense. In all team work got them this far with more to come. Go Sabres!

U16B5

This season the 16.5 Boys have worked extremely hard with their coach Michael McInnes. The jump to 16’s has seen the boys come up against other boys, which don’t really look like boys but more men! This has been a real eye opener for all of us! With strength and determination, this team has seen some great wins and minimal losses. Michael used the mix of strength and speed to allow us to have the advantage for most games. When we have lost, it hasn’t been by much which has shown us the grit and determination that these have displayed throughout the season.

We have had our fair share of injuries which included broken fingers and ankles. Success doesn’t come without hard work and hopefully we will continue working hard and bouncing back from injuries to get us through to finals. My role as Team Manager has been fun. I get to talk to the lovely and dedicated parents that drive their sons to and from venues week in week out.

We have had some good laughs and have made some great friends. Good luck for the rest of the season boys and keep up the hard work.

Christine Tsaousis Team Manager

There were some crazy spectators across the year, never making sense but one of our most pleasing memories was where the referee at Warrandyte at a late Friday night game introduced each team, player by player by name, to applause, and then the coaches by name, something not seen too often.

It was quaint and put a smile on everyone’s dial. This game in particular highlighted players like Selhorst and Karahasan whose contribution to the team from this writer’s perspective has been significant in establishing offensive transition. Particularly evident is Selhorst’s speed to react whilst maintaining exceptional footwork and ball handling skills. Ady whilst not always the quickest to drive is considered in her play and provides a good demonstration around ‘read and react’, however her strength comes to light in defensive transition and defense itself where in a tussle her

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Free THROWS

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The second Annual Under 16’s Sabres on the Road to Tasmania trip was conducted successfully once again over the April school holidays. Nineteen boys and twenty one girls made the trip this year, along with 7 coaches and 10 outstanding parent helpers.

After settling into our accommodation upon arrival, it was time for the first practice session on Wednesday afternoon. A lively warm-up with ballhandling with tennis balls with Sinisa was followed up by a quick lesson in 3 out 2 in motion offence and subsequent break-down drills.

Wednesday evening’s meal was followed by one of Professor Waddell’s famous quiz nights and some tired bodies crawled into bed.

There was a full day of Basketball on Thursday with two sessions, one in the morning followed by beach recovery and another lighter practice in the afternoon. Another full day of basketball practice on Friday ended with two of our girls’ teams competing against teams from NW Tasmania to kick off the tournament.

The tournament concluded with Ian Leckie’s boys team and Peter Ligeti’s girls team both competed in the respective Grand Finals. Both Semi-Finals featured Sabres teams.

Everyone watched the Sabres SEABL team run out of time against Northwest Tasmania on Saturday night.

On Sunday the entire group visited Tasmazia, Australia’s largest maze, before heading to Launceston to board the flight back to Melbourne.

Tasmania

Some feedback from parents below: “Just wanted to say a quick thank-you to every one who made the Tassie trip possible. I thought the players would have good time but the trip exceeded all expectations and the boys had an amazing week away. I suspect it came down to detailed organisation, the patience of the adults (very much appreciate them taking the time) and a great group of top age kids. From what the boys have told us there was a perfect mix of basketball and fun.”

“Thank you for the great trip. We are so impressed with all the coaches and parents who did well organising, a huge effort to make a big successful camp. My son had a great time! “

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U18G1

At the beginning of the season, the girls set two goals for themselves to achieve over the course of the year and it is evident that this team was successful in their mission. Although many would point to the win/loss column as the sole marker for success, the girls had much more to celebrate in evaluating their performance for the 2014 season.

In the past two years, this core group have climbed from competing in Metro 2, to the competitive ranks among all the best teams in VC. This year, there were games that the girls performed so well (Knox/Melbourne Tigers) that they gave higher ranking teams a scare and they had a shot of making the Classic.

Team Report U 18 Boys & Girls

With the end of the season comes the completion of junior careers on the team. Whether through their leadership on or off the floor, their enthusiasm to rebound, or shoot, this crew of seven will be missed by all.

Rachael contributed to the junior program with her ability to lead and was the one the team looked to for offense, especially from behind the three-point line. Bec on many nights was the one that provided an offensive jolt for the team with her ability to create and score. Emma has had the talent of hitting big shots for the team when they have needed a lift.

Frankie has had a natural skill to turn a game around with her drives and hit shots from the outside. Abby has been the hardest working player on the team; her energy and effort has been admirable and inspirational for all the girls to see. Laney has been one of our best defenders and has been vital in helping her team mates when they have been beaten off the drive.

Emily has had a willingness to hustle for loose balls and has worked hard at being a strong presence inside the paint.

Our bottom age girls were also great assets to the group this year. Caitlin was the team’s defensive stopper and would be substituted in and out of the game to utilize her defensive ability. Courteney played forward for the team and improved her ability on the defensive end, and displayed her toughness with her number of rebounds. Lucy was our great offensive threat this year as teams never knew how to guard her dangerous shot or quick drive.

As a result, it would be impossible to see this season as anything but a success. Good luck next season girls and well done on a great junior career everyone.

Coach: Paul Graham Assistant Coach: Alana Gadsby

U18B1

Having been involved with this group of boys since U12 and having managed the team four times, it feels like an era is coming to a close, and so this report is about my journey, as well as that of the players.

The team was selected in October by coaches Dave and Izzy, and consisted of Will Albrecht, Alex Andrews, Harley Balic, Harry Byrne, Antonio Crupi, Jimmy Ellison, Finn Kenny, Lachie Lemons, Josh Hall and Tim Taranto. Harley sat out grading with a wrist injury then decided to pursue his football pathway, leaving the team with nine players and an ex-player/future AFL star!

The team was racked by injury throughout grading so after qualifying for VC in the early stages, their position after nine rounds resulted in relegation to VC Reserve for the second half of the season. So far so good, with five wins and a draw, which make finals look likely.

As this is the last truly junior year in the VJBL competition, I would like to use this opportunity to reflect on the wonderful experience Sabres has been for me. As legend would have it, when a parent asked Shane Tobin how long the Sabres season lasted, he replied seven years!! He was so right and not only have I had the privilege of working with Shane but also with an amazing range of talented coaches including Josh Rout, Jamie Treasure and of course, Dave and Izzy. These men have encouraged, pushed, supported and praised this age group of boys to always be the best they could be…and then be better.

I have travelled the country from Adelaide to Gosford, in car convoys and burning buses. I have stayed in cabins in sub-zero temperatures and sweltered in 40-degree stadiums EVERY January!

I have watched games that have gone down to the wire; defeats snatched from the jaws of victory; and fabulous displays of athleticism and skill.

I have been lucky to accompany teams to competitions like the U14 Club Nationals, the Norwood Easter Classic and the National Junior Classic, and also take the whole age group on a nine-day road trip to NSW via Canberra and back.

I have seen an incredible group of boys grow up together, forming friendships and creating memories, which will endure throughout their lives. I have watched them laugh and cry, win and lose, and play tournaments and games around the country – all for the love of basketball.

My recollections would not be complete without mention of those who make all this happen – the most extraordinary group of selfless volunteers who score, drive, cook, wash and cheer on their boys as well as everybody else’s! I have had the pleasure of being associated with an amazing cohort of parents who have made my journey unforgettable – it has been a gift and I thank you.

Victoria Pidhirny – Team Manager

U18G2

Season 2013/14 began with the selection of a mix of top and bottom age girls and coach Ryan Heggart. It

looked to be a good fit as Ryan had coached most of the girls before and knew them well. Our initial grading phase was not so successful and the team struggled to come together and then with the retirement of Ebony after Christmas, we looked to be underachieving. Then came the Dandenong Eltham tournament in January, in which the girls finally found some form, played some ferocious games and did themselves and their coach proud by taking out the top prize for their grade.

We looked towards the season proper with high expectations, having finally graded in Metro 2. The girls began well, performing strongly and getting enough wins to put them at the top of the ladder. By about round 7, we had earned a few niggling injuries and along with a bit of a form slump, our team started going down to opponents they had expected to beat. By the end of the first half of the season, we had dropped to fifth on the ladder and were staring at the possibility of not making finals.

After a refreshing break, and finally getting rid of the injuries, the girls got back hard into training and managed to score a couple of wins balanced by another couple of losses. At the time of writing this article, we are sitting fourth on the ladder with two important rounds to go. We are needing to win at least one of those games to secure our spot in the finals but both would be nice!

It has been a pleasure to work with the girls and I appreciate all of their hard work for the year. I would also like to thank each and every parent for their support with scoring, paying subs on time and cheering on the team. It certainly has made my job easy. Lastly, a huge thank you must go to our coach Ryan for his infinite patience, gentle guidance and unfailing good humour shown to all of us, especially me. Good luck to the team in the finals – let’s hope we can pull off another premiership!

Kelly Cigognini Team Manager

U18B2

Unlike most seasons, 2014 has thrown our team challenge after challenge. We have had to overcome multiple long term injuries, players moving overseas, players deciding to quit and new players joining us along the journey. It really speaks to the quality and support of the parents that the guys were able to show up each week to train and compete, especially when times were tough. I couldn’t be more proud of the group of young men that I have had the privilege of working with over the course of this season. Good luck in your basketball pursuits guys, and remember, do it because you love it.

Cheers, Ben.

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U18B3

Team: Sabres Boys U18/3 Coach: James McKinnon (Team Members: #7 - Jye Sujaini, #10 - Matt Foster, #15 - Izaiah Elisaia, #30 - Jonathan Selhorst, #33 - Anthony McKimm, #34 - Chris Heaslip, #35 - Alex Skoro, #42 - Jed Melican, #54 - Brad Shea) With James McKinnon wearing the coach’s hat, the U18/3 boys played a sensational grading phase to narrowly beat the understaffed at the time18/2 boys into a place in Junior League 2.

But, alas, that was always going to mean a pretty tough journey ahead.

However, we won our first two games and things were looking as if we might be OK. Wrong. We then encountered some pretty talented opposition, arguably a little more experienced and polished than us, and we started what was to become a “losing streak” for the remainder of the season. This losing streak was no doubt partly attributable to an also season-long string of injuries that saw us play only 4 of 18 games with a full team.

All that being said, James has done an amazing job with the boys in always maintaining a positive outlook, and keeping the boys attitudes and enthusiasm in the positive. On so many occasions the boys have been within 4-6 points of the lead against the top teams with only minutes remaining, only to end up losing by 15 or so. Hence, our bottom position on the ladder simply doesn’t reflect how well the boys have played all season.

From the parents perspective:- boys, although we have felt and shared your disappointments immediately after losing a game, you don’t realise how fantastic you have all actually performed. We have seen the smiles on your faces and your enthusiasm throughout the season right to the end, the fun you’ve all had along the way, the friendships you’ve made, developed and grown, the way you have responded to all that has come your way, and we know that you are in fact a team of winners. James, you have all our sincerest thanks for leading our team of winners!

And, boys, you have the parents to thank for the 1,697km’s clocked up going to all the trainings and 9:40pm games in Geelong, Sunbury, Werribee, Ballarat...

Remember us on our birthdays!

Thanks Gaynor and Gary for all your emails and messages throughout the season Coach, James McKinnon – “It was a great honour and privilege to coach the boys this year. I am very proud of their constant improvement and effort throughout the year”

Chris H – “This season we had the longest streak in the whole league too bad it was a losing streak! Breaking my finger didn’t help make it any better either...”

Izaiah E – “Although this season hasn’t been the best in winning terms, I’ve still had a great year and learnt a lot under James’ coaching” Jye S – “The highlights of this season were the games where we put together a full game of basketball. Even though we might not have won the games, we improved every week we played” Matt F – “The season started off great with a few quick wins, and the highlight was qualifying for Metro 2. Thanks to James for the fantastic coaching” Jed M – “Well technically, “as a full team” this season, we won 66% of our games. Full credit and thanks to James for remaining positive and encouraging us throughout the season” Anthony M – “A long tough season, with many games going down to the final few minutes. We were very unlucky we couldn’t catch a winning break.

Our win/loss record did not reflect our effort and how well we played” Jonathan S – “Overall we had a pretty rough season but played well throughout the year, particularly towards the end where our team play got better” Alex S – “Although we didn’t finish where we were hoping to on the ladder, the season was very enjoyable and I had lots of fun playing on this team” Brad S – “This season was awesome because we all improved, while at the same time having amazing fun and laughs. Now everyone is really great friends too!”

U18G3

A year of challenges, continued skill development and friendships, the 18.3G VJBL season started with 9 girls brought together Liv, Pia, Ellen, Lani, Bianca, Sophie, Maddy, Steph and Vivienne consisting of 8 bottom age players.

Head coach Ian Leckie started the season with great enthusiasm and a clear agenda to grade high along with assistant coach Jacqui Leckie. Both brought their extensive coaching and basketball experience to the team along with many lollies.

The girls participated at a high level during the Australia Day Dandenong/ Eltham Tournament. During the tournament the girls had many successes and ended up taking out the grand final with pride.

After their successful tournament the girls were able to finish their grading strongly and graded well at VJBL 3. The season continued successfully with combined wins and losses with the girls just playing their last game and waiting to find out whether they made

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finals. VJBL 3 has provided the girls with a strong and competitive competition.

Our team in true basketball style has not been without injury throughout the season. In fact I believe every team member has been plagued by injury at some stage; this however has not stopped the girls from enjoying their shared love of basketball, training together, playing together and enjoying their basketball journey together.

Overall a good development season experienced by all the girls providing them with the necessary skills for their basketball seasons ahead.

Sandra Hilford

U18B4

Our season started with a 9AM match on a Sunday. That’s pretty rough but when only 3 kids showed up, Ash and myself were wondering what has Ian (Leckie) roped us into now. The first few weeks went slowly as we struggled just to get the numbers for a team, it safe to say things were looking bleak.

When we eventually found a few extra players and the team was set.

The team included many players who had played together in sabres before but we also had some players new to representative basketball.

Finding out we were in the lowest possible grade Ash and myself spent the first few games just trying to see who could play and we quickly came to the conclusion that these kids are way to good for the bottom pool. We started the pre-season running every week significantly improving and moving up the pools, if it wasn’t for two consecutive weeks were we blew 10 point leads we could’ve ended in metro instead we settled in Regional 2 North Central which was still a great effort.

The season started slowly with several close losses but the team has really found some great chemistry going into the back end of the year.

I’d like to thank all the parents for their contribution this year and allowing us to coach freely and always being a supportive network behind the boys and getting them to trainings and matches on time, also a special mention to Mel for being the best team manager and being our part time taxi, you’ve been great to us despite the fact you made me write this.

Ash and myself are first time coaches at this level and really didn’t know what to expect. We’ve really enjoyed our time with this group of young men, they have not only been great for a laugh (usually at their expense) but have also listened to what we have tried to teach them and have all improved and worked hard for us all year. We are currently sitting second on the ladder and are playing our best basketball of the year. I think the team all now believe that we have the potential to achieve something special this year.

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I’m not a gambling man, but every Friday night I enter a lottery! The first few minutes of the warm up normally gives a slight hint as to the outcome of that lottery - sometimes it’s great, and other times it’s ugly. Despite that, as I write we have finished fourth in VC and heading into the playoffs this Friday.

Our season only starts at the Australia day weekend, as we don’t have grading pre Christmas. The tournament was a great opportunity to try out some new players, and despite not much training we did remarkably well. I lost my first $10 of the season to Matt Tolj for a dunk in the game against Dandenong.

One of the highlights of the season, for some of the boys, was beating Kilsyth which they have never achieved.

Team Report U 20 Boys

Of the 13 man squad, eight have represented the Youth Team, and three have played at least one game at SEABL level. A great achievement by the boys.

We have used our Friday night games as a warm for the weekend BigV games.

Our training sessions were combined with the Youth League, so we have run the same offence and defence. I have to say it has worked very well, although even last friday I got a couple of blank looks when I called some plays, I put it down to frontal lobe growth.

I have throughly enjoyed coaching the boys, even though some games have been a little fraught. Together, we have discovered parts of Melbourne that we have never seen before - part of the rich tapestry of Friday night competition!

A big thank you to Sandra Howarth, for taking on the team manager role, and to all the parents for helping with the scoring - couldn’t have done it without you.

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thirsty

WORK

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Sabres Head Coach’s Report

The 2013 – 2014 Season has flown by once again and we are preparing for try-outs for 2015 already.

This year, 47 coaches were involved in the development of over 320 Junior Sabres players across 33 teams. Aside from the bi-weekly practice sessions, many Sabres players took advantage of our additional programs offered, such as our early morning Elite Sessions with Sinisa, Sabres Shooting School, and the more recently initiated and highly popular Elite Guard School run by our Under 16.1 Boys coach, Nathan Crosswell. Nathan’s recent appointment as Head Coach of our Outreach Programs will strengthen our Club’s offerings significantly and I welcome him aboard in his new role.

There have been some significant achievements throughout the year. Under 18’s player Finn Kenny was selected as an emergency player for the Vic Metro squad at the Australian Championships, Tim Taranto was a member of the Vic Metro Under 16 Boys team, and Ella Batish and Lucy Cochrane were both members of the Under 16 Vic Metro Girls team, whilst Keely Frawley was an emergency player for that squad. Congratulations to all of these young players on their participation in the Australian Championships for their age group! Our Under 18 Boys Coach, Dave Mitchell, was also the Assistant Coach for our Vic Metro Under 18 State Team.

With 8 out of a possible 9 teams making VC, our number one teams in each age group have competed well in the highest possible competition in Australia.

Six of those eight teams also made VC Championship after the first rounds of play, a pleasing overall result for our Club. Our U/12 Boys (finished 3rd) and U/16 Boys (8th) and Girls (7th) all made the National Junior Classic, with the 16’s having the added bonus of playing in their home venue. Once again, a huge thank you to all the volunteers that weekend who helped make the Under 16 Classic such a fantastic event for our Club. .

Sabres on the Road saw its’ second year of operation, with some of our U/12’s traveling to Ballarat, U/14’s to Canberra and U/16’s once again flying to Tasmania.

The Junior Sabres had an opportunity to support our Sabres SEABL teams at their away games, as well as interacting with a number of SEABL players during the camp/clinic sessions on two of these trips. The purpose of these trips is to highlight the aspirational pathway to the Premier Winter Competition in Australia. Thank you to all of the volunteers that make this program so successful and enjoyable to be a part of.

Our Coaches development has been significant during the past season as well. Clinics on Motion Offence, Man to Man Defence, How to Handle Courtside Injuries, Teaching Shooting and Teaching Shooting Footwork have all been offered and were well attended. Almost every Junior Sabres coach has been reviewed during a game this past season, with advice being offered on team improvement and coach improvement where applicable.

Player Evaluations and Mid-Season Meetings with players and parents were also initiated during the past season and should prove valuable moving forward for all of those involved. Also developed this year is our Character Skills Development Program for both Coaches and Players, which will prove extremely valuable in the development of desirable Performance and Value Skills next season and into our future.

Our SEABL Men’s and Women’s teams have both not been without their ups and downs this season.

Our SEABL program is an important one in that it is the highest level of our developmental pathway offered here at the Sabres.

After an 1-12 start to the SEABL season, the SBA Board made the tough decision to replace the coach with a man who has been with our Club for 11 seasons as a Junior Coach and two season as our Youth League Coach, Paul Graham. Within a matter of weeks Paul demonstrated that he is the right man for the job and I am sure greater success for our Women’s program is just around the corner.

Our men’s team lost two players throughout the year, both were starters. They rebounded from these set-backs to make finals in Coach Steve Hoare’s first year at the helm. A very good effort by the boys given the circumstances.

Our American imports, Rayshawn Goins and Junior Hairston proved to be popular additions to our Club and it is hoped both will return for the 2015 season.

Their work, together with New Zealand Import Micaela Cocks, is vitally important to increase basketball participation and to connect with the younger players in our basketball community. The popularity of our Super Camps is an indication of the enthusiasm these players bring to their roles.

Our Youth League Women’s team finished third overall and narrowly lost in their Bendigo Final under the tutelage of Coach Arran Batish. While our Youth League Men’s team improved greatly throughout the year after a slow start to the season under Coach Mark Chivers.

Thank you to the SBA Board of Management for their support of the Sabres program this year. I would like to especially thank our 47 Junior Sabres Coaches, our Senior Coaches and especially our Leading Coaches Group for their collective efforts in what has been a most enjoyable year of basketball. Also, a big thank you to Sinisa Markovic, our Sabres Elite Development Coach for sharing his knowledge and for his support and good humour over the past 12 months.

Bill Runchey Sabres Head Coach

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Imports Ray Goins Ray arrived in Australia in late February and joined the Sabres pre-season about a month before the first game. Unfortunately living with his mum had ‘softened’ him up a little when he arrived and it was affecting his performance at training and during our practice games. After a little pressure, to his credit, he responded very well and he worked very hard with a personal trainer and on his diet and was quickly get back to match fitness.

Ray has since been a force to be reckoned with on the block as he has a very quick first step and then uses his size and strength to his advantage. He has averaged 18points and 11 rebounds while shooting at just over 50%. His biggest game came against Knox where he scored 29 points and pulled down 17 rebounds.

Ray has been great around the club and his ‘two-tap’ handshake has become very well known. He is well liked by his teammates and a popular figure amongst the Juniors.

He has also been a tremendous club person and a great asset to the Sabres.

Junior Hairston Junior came to the Sabres half way through the season as a replacement for Mike Moore. After a rough first up game, he very quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with when he registered 25 points and 17 rebounds in only his 2nd game.

His most dominant game was against Albury Wodonga when he poured in 41points at an incredible 84% and had 8 rebounds. He is a great athlete whose combination of inside/outside game has caused many problems for opposing teams. He is also a great defensive player and takes pride in stopping his man from scoring.

Unfortunately Junior was also hit by the Sabres injury curse and is unavailable for the last 3 games of our season but the impact he made in the 9 games that he played was significant. In that time he averaged 19 points and 12 rebounds per game while shooting the ball at over 50% Junior has a great personality and very quickly fitted into the group and just as importantly, he became very popular among the Junior Sabres. Like Ray, he has been a great asset to the Sabres this season.

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C E L E B R A T I N G

Years of

B A S K E T B A L L

C E L E B R A T I N G

Years of

B A S K E T B A L L

Micaela Cocks This has been Micaela’s fourth year with the Sabres, and her reputation goes from strength to strength. She joined us after another disappointing defeat to Bendigo in the WNBL final. After a few weeks off, something she has not done for a very long time, it was not not long before she was up to her usual level of fitness on the back of her very strong work ethic.

The start of the SEABL season didn’t go quite as planned, but Micaela continued to show full commitment despite some of the disappointing defeats. This season, whilst Micaela’s points average may be a little down, she has become more of a provider within her team, averaging four assists a game, putting her fifth in the overall SEABL assists column. She has provided support and guidance to the younger players that have joined the squad this year.

Micaela has continued to show her support throughout the Junior Club, including giving the benefit of her experience carrying out individuals with a variety of age groups. Her assistance with the on the road programmes was enthusiastic as ever, both in Tasmania and Canberra. She had a little bit of a shock to the system with coaching the Elite program every morning, but she survived.

It’s difficult to articulate in words what an unbelievable role model she is to any aspiring athlete. Her work ethic is second to none, she trains three times a day, on top of all the coaching she does. That work ethic, together with a large dose of talent, and a great personality to match, is what has made Micaela an Olympian, and a great person to have around the Club.

Micaela is now up to 94 games for Sandringham at SEABL level - we look forward to seeing her achieve the 100 mark next year. She is off to Townsville, once again, to play in the WNBL, and we wish her well.

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sorry to embarrass you but...

basketball orballet?

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feel the LOVE

ALL HAIL THE

MASTER!

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AIS The 2014 Sabres on the Road Under 14 trip to Canberra was once again conducted over the July school holidays.

18 boys and 20 girls travelled with our favourite bus driver Bec up the Hume Highway on Tuesday, July 8th. After our first pit-stop at Benalla, some of the girls found voice and serenaded the group for what seemed like quite some time. Thankfully, their repertoire was not extensive, and by the time we arrived at the Tucker Box, everyone was in good spirits.

Some Trivia supplied by Coach Steve Brown between Gundagai and Canberra helped pass the time and before we knew it we were at the A.I.S. and ready for our first meal at the Athlete’s Dining Hall.

A big day on Wednesday started with both boys and girls groups having two practice sessions on individual perimeter and post skills along with the Canberra under 14’s. A tour of the A.I.S. facilities was followed by a

delicious dinner, then the players were treated to a movie in the theatrette. “Hoosiers” proved as popular this night as it was upon release in 1986!

Thursday started with another practice session shared with the Canberra teams, this time on shooting mechanics and footwork. A trip to Questacon rounded out the afternoon’s activities. Professor Phil Thomas entertained us all with a lively Trivia Night in the Gold Room of the A.I.S. Basketball facility.

On Friday we travelled to Tuggeranong stadium for games v. Newcastle girls and Canberra teams. The highlight of the day being a tight over-time win to Steve “Shooter” Brown’s Under 14 boys over the Canberra boys.

No one was caught watching the paint dry and the old Picket Fence play worked a treat once again!

Pizzas were ordered in, and we then sat down to support the Sabres SEABL Women and

Men against the Canberra teams. Our women delivered their 4th win in a row for new coach Paul Graham but the Sabres men were caught napping (as was Tibah) in the first quarter, and unfortunately were unable to claw their way back into their game.

Our lady helpers serenaded us on the way to Melbourne (why did it seem like such a much longer trip home?) and we finally arrived back at the Sabre Dome very tired, but safe and sound on Saturday evening.

The trip once again gave opportunity to our under 14’s to bond with players from other teams (both boys and girls) and also from other Clubs. It also provided them with an insight into the life of an A.I.S. athlete and finally, highlighted the aspirational pathway provided to our Juniors into our SEABL teams.

Thank you from the Sabres Club to all the parent volunteers, and also to our coaches who gave up their holidays to assist with the camp.

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Sabres Sponsorship Sabres_magazine2014-covers.indd 2

Major Sponsors - Jefferson Ford and Hyundai, Nunn Media, La Trobe Financial, Sandringham Sports Physio, Mentone Grammar and Hocking Stuart School Holiday Camp Sponsors – Bendigo Bank and Subway Mentone School Program Sponsor – Melbourne Orthodontic Group (MOG) Community Program Sponsors – The NewBay Hotel, TGI Fridays, Bay Rd Tyre & Brake Service, Point Accounting Services, Chelsea Cruise and Travel, Turning Point Cycles, Telstra Business Centre Mentone, Ready Steady Go Kids, The Door Store, Melbourne Brick, Goodlife Gyms, Fantastic Furniture, Builde Permits and Inspections, The Road Professor Driving School Trophy Sponsor – Osmosis Melbourne

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