Sport
7 November, 2024
Finishing touches put on preparation for Horsham junior classic basketball
The tournament will be played in Horsham, Dimboola and Stawell.
The Horsham Amateur Basketball Association is putting its final preparations on the busiest weekend of the season as the annual junior classic is held on Saturday, November 9, and Sunday, November 10.
About 81 teams will converge on the region, with games to be played in Horsham, Dimboola and Stawell.
For Hornets' under-18 boys player, Jaxon Crooks, the tournament is an opportunity to play in front of familiar faces.
"It will be good to play in front of friends and family, and we get to play on our home court," Crooks said.
"It will be a good competition against other teams."
According to under-18 girls representative Indy Webb, her side will look to continue where it left off.
The girls won the division two grand final at the seaside classic in Warrnambool on October 26 and 27.
"It was a good feeling, but this time, we're versing divisions one and two, so it might be a bit of a challenge," Webb said.
Webb, 14, looks forward to playing up two age groups.
"I like the challenge; it makes it a bit more fun," she said.
'A pretty big' weekend for Horsham
HABA coaching director Matt Lovel credited the work of those involved ahead of the tournament.
"It's been super exciting and busy trying to organise volunteers for things," Lovel said.
"It is a big weekend for Horsham and basketball... All our junior rep teams are here and then our CBL on Saturday night as well."
Lovel believes the tournament will be a good economic boost for the region.
"It's great, not just for basketball, but also for the surrounding businesses.
"Accommodation is sold out; all the pubs for meals and other places [are busy]."
"It's not just a big thing for us; it's a big thing for the town as well."
Matches begin at 8 am on Saturday, with the last pool matches held on Sunday morning before finals.