Basketball NSW is thrilled to announce the success of the 2024 Under 12 John Davidson Country Jamboree, which took place across two locations—Coffs Harbour and Griffith during the September/October school holidays.
The Jamborees brought together over 390 young athletes, 40 coaches, and 40 referees from a mix of 38 country associations all eager to showcase their skills at Sportz Central in Coffs Harbour and the Griffith Regional Sports Centre. These events, held annually, aim to offer country players an opportunity to develop in a high performance basketball environment.
The selection process for Under 12 players took place during the Term 1 and Term 2 School Holiday U12 Skills Days, offering athletes an early opportunity to develop their basketball skills in a supportive setting.
The heart of the event extends far beyond competitive games. The Jamboree focuses on creating a well-rounded experience for everyone involved—players, coaches, and referees alike. The players engage in skill-building activities, receive mentorship from seasoned coaches, and participate in games designed to ensure everyone gets time on the court. For the coaches and referees, it’s a valuable opportunity for growth, as they attend coaching clinics and training sessions led by some of the sport’s most respected figures.
Basketball NSW, Programs Manager: Participation Programs, Adam Marjoram shared his excitement over the event’s success.
“The 2024 Jamboree was a fantastic experience for all involved and it’s a real privilege to be part of their basketball journey,” said Marjoram.
“It’s inspiring to see how much the players, coaches, and referees gain from the event—not just in terms of skills, but in the off-court workshops and fun activities, which will give them friendships and memories to take away with them.”
Marjoram emphasised that the event isn’t just about individual development and also acknowledged the essential role of volunteers, parents, bench officials, local associations and stadium staff in making the event a reality.
“This Jamboree is also a learning environment for our coaches and referees, who benefit from hands-on training and education. The clinics we offer and the experiences they gain on the court prepare them for the future as much as the players.”
“We couldn’t do this without the support of our amazing volunteers and the dedication of the parents. Their commitment ensures the kids have a great experience, both on and off the court.”
The 2024 Under 12 John Davidson Country Jamboree has once again proven to be a vital part of Basketball NSW’s mission to nurture young talent, provide development opportunities for coaches and referees, and strengthen the country basketball community.
Northern Jamboree Highlights:
The 2024 Northern Jamboree began with a memorable opening ceremony featuring a Welcome to Country delivered by Aunty Gloria, followed by a captivating traditional dance performance by the Jalay Jalay dance troupe. The presence of John Davidson and his wife added a special touch to the event, as John’s heartfelt speech on the significance of grassroots basketball inspired everyone in attendance, particularly the young athletes.
Throughout the weekend, athletes took part in dynamic training sessions led by Basketball NSW’s Participation Program Manager, Adam Marjoram. These sessions focused on fundamental basketball skills such as ball handling, shooting accuracy, defensive tactics, and in-game decision-making. Players were encouraged to push themselves, develop their basketball IQ, and embrace the competitive spirit of the game.
The weekend also featured a Grit for Girls workshop, led by Karen Irwin, Head Coach of the Central Coast Crusaders Youth League Women, alongside player Shakera O’Reilly and referee Zara Baldwin, both of whom have progressed through the Jamboree Pathway. This empowering workshop aimed to build resilience, confidence, and teamwork among the young participants. Through interactive activities and motivational discussions, the girls gained valuable tools to overcome challenges, embrace their strengths, and foster a supportive environment where they could connect and share experiences.
One of the weekend’s most anticipated events was the games night, designed by Karen Irwin, which celebrated the vibrant culture of Country NSW. Athletes donned fun and outrageous outfits, bringing energy and laughter to the evening as they strengthened friendships and created lasting memories with their teammates.
Junior referees were also guided by a dedicated group of referee mentor coaches, who offered valuable support and expert coaching throughout the event. These mentors not only provided on-court guidance but also joined the younger referees and actively participated in off-court activities, contributing to the overall development and camaraderie of the group.
Off the court, local community members had the chance to participate in a Level 1 Technical Officials Course, facilitated by Greg Stephenson. The course attracted parents eager to understand the rules of basketball and the critical role referees play in ensuring fair play. Topics covered included officiating basics, game management, and how to foster a positive atmosphere for players and coaches.
A standout feature of the weekend was the coaches’ clinic led by renowned coach Tim Mallon. Focusing on “Young Athlete Skill Development,” the clinic provided local coaches with valuable insights into player development, emphasising skills like footwork, agility, and mental toughness. Mallon’s expertise, drawn from years of experience, equipped coaches with new strategies to enhance the growth of young athletes.
By the end of the Northern Jamboree, 60 games had been played, highlighting the impressive growth, teamwork, and skills the athletes had honed throughout the weekend
Southern Jamboree Highlights:
The 2024 Southern Jamboree kicked off with a traditional Welcome to Country delivered by Koby Penrith, followed by a captivating performance from didgeridoo player Ben Curphy. The event set the tone for a weekend filled with basketball development, community engagement, and a strong emphasis on cultural respect.
Throughout the weekend, athletes participated in high-energy training sessions led by Basketball NSW’s Participation Program Manager, Adam Marjoram. The sessions focused on key basketball skills, including ball handling, shooting accuracy, defensive techniques, and in-game decision-making. Players were pushed to challenge themselves, sharpen their basketball IQ, and embrace the competitive nature of the sport.
Rachel Herrick, BNSW’s Program Manager for Women and Girls, led a powerful discussion with 100 female athletes. She was joined by special guests Timeeka Coleman, former NSW Country Girls Captain and NBL1 Border Bandits player, and Isabel Naylor, an up-and-coming referee coach from Central Coast Basketball. Both Timeeka and Isabel shared personal stories of perseverance, teamwork, and their passion for basketball, inspiring everyone in the room and encouraging young athletes to follow their own paths with confidence and determination.
Junior referees received guidance from a committed team of referee mentor coaches, who provided expert support and coaching throughout the event. These mentors not only offered on-court instruction but also engaged with the junior referees during off-court activities, fostering their development and enhancing the sense of camaraderie within the group.
Off the court, local community members had the opportunity to engage in a Level 1 Technical Officials Course, facilitated by Greg Stephenson. The course attracted local parents keen to learn the rules of the game and the critical role referees play in maintaining fair play. The session covered officiating fundamentals, game management, and fostering a positive environment for both players and coaches.
A highlight of the weekend was the coaches’ clinic, led by renowned coach Peter Lonergan, which focused on “Young Athlete Skill Development.” Attended by 70 local coaches, the clinic offered invaluable insights into player development, covering essential skills such as footwork, agility, and mental toughness. Peter also conducted coach reflection sessions and educational workshops, providing an opportunity for coaches to evaluate their methods, share experiences, and discuss strategies for improving player performance.
By the conclusion of the Southern Jamboree, 60 games had been played, showcasing the growth, teamwork, and skills developed by the athletes over the weekend.
BNSW would like to thank the following people for their amazing contributions:
- Blake Testoni (Local and Western Referee Development Officer)
- Ché Jenkins and Anita Bugno (venue support)
- Eleisha Collins of EM Photography
- Greg Stephenson (Technical bench course and Support)
- Kellie-Ann Hassan and Heather Passlow and Griffith Basketball Association’s incredible support team including Loretta Armanini, Naomi Wilmot and Kimberley McMahon (who served delicious meals for participants).
- iAthletic
- Soul Sports
- Isabel Forbes (BNSW Regional Development Officer)
- John Davidson
- Karen Irwin
- Lea Salvestro (Court Supervisor- Southern Jamboree)
- Leeanne Palmer
- Louis Brockwell (BNSW Technical Officials Administration Officer)
- Lou Testoni (Local Councillor and advocate for NSW Country Basketball)
- Natalie Ballard
- Nicole McMahon
- John Davidson
- Peter Lonergan (Guest Coach Education Presenter)
- Rachel Herrick (BNSW Program Manager Women and Girls)
- Shakera O’Reilly, Zara Balwin, Timeeka Coleman and Isabel Naylor (Grit for Girls panellist).
- Sportz Central venue staff
- Steve Clark (BNSW Head of Technical Officials)
- Tim Mallon (Guest Coach Education Presenter)
- Volunteer Coffs Harbour Basketball parents and athletes (who served delicious meals for participants)
- Volunteer Mentor Coaches
- Volunteer Referee Coaches
- Volunteer Regional Referee Coaches
Basketball NSW is immensely grateful to everyone and would like to thank everyone who contributed to the outstanding success of this year’s 2024 John Davidson Country Jamboree’s and our U12 Skills Days.
Click HERE to visit the Northern Photo Gallery.
Click HERE to visit the Southern Photo Gallery.
