Tuesday, 7 March 2023

 Martin CAMERON (Morwell) (13:07): I attended the launch on Sunday of the Gippsland United basketball season. This is an elite basketball program for Gippslanders, allowing our homegrown talent from across the region and beyond to play against the best the state has to offer. For the separate basketball associations to come together and join forces under the banner of Gippsland United and make a pathway for the future of elite basketball in Gippsland has taken the vision and relentless hard work of the board to bring to life. To be able to provide top-level programs, coaches and facilities for the players, both senior and junior – it certainly is going to be very exciting times ahead. Men’s coach Scott McKenzie is again at the helm this year and is excited by the improvement already of the squad. They won the division 2 grand final last year and are heading to the division 1 season ready for all the challenges that lie ahead. Female coach this year is Brad Rooff, and he is keen to guide the elite talent at his disposal as they aim for a successful year ahead in division 2. Brad joins the coaching staff for the first time and brings a wealth of experience with him both on and off the court. I thank Brad Charles for the opportunity to chat with the coaches, players and staff and look forward to watching and cheering on elite basketball through our very own Gippsland United team.