2019/20 Summer U16 MVP awards

While ending the season on the eve of finals was a disappointing but necessary way to finish the 2019/20 Summer Basketball season there was still enough basketball played to establish some individual awards.

The U16 boy’s competition had plenty of strong performers throughout the season however non more impressive than Bulldogs player Ben Young. Ben whose hard work and potential have seem him gain some recent opportunities to be involved with the Mount Gambier Pioneers Men’s program had a stellar season averaging 28 points, including a season high 33 against the league leading Roos.

Ben gave a lot of credit for his season to those around him, ‘I would like to thank my Bulldogs Coaches Duncan Reid and Will Wright, my teammates for making it a great season, I would also like to thank Richard Hill for the opportunity to train with the Pioneers and Bryan Green for his coaching at the Lakers. Also, to my parents for their support and taking me to all my basketball commitments.’

The improvement Ben has shown and his dedication to training has been very pleasing for all that have been involved with Ben, however he is still striving for more, ‘I am aiming to trial well for the U16 and U18 State and national program, I aim to take my game to the next level.’

While these current times are challenging for all Ben is still finding ways to stay in shape, ‘I have been going for runs, working on my ball handling and getting my body stronger with gym equipment at home.’

The girls U16 competition was a tightly contested competition between the top three teams with the Bulldogs finishing the regular season on top, a team that was led by Kori Collins who was awarded the U16 girls MVP.

Kori led the league in scoring averaging just over 18 points, including a season high 25 points against the second place Panthers. Kori’s coach Sharon Adams has always enjoyed having Kori in her sides, ‘Kori is a fantastic young lady who I have had the pleasure of coaching for a number of years, she plays with great poise and maturity.’

This season was a real coming of age season for Kori who in the past has not always had great belief in her own talents, this was evident to Sharon, ‘She has not always been the most confident player but she is so deserving of this award after and awesome season where she really dominated on court.’

While it is challenging times for all involved the improvement of these two bright young athletes has been extremely positive, we hope they can continue to develop and enjoy their basketball.