Last Thursday, a group of coaches from the Basketball NSW Indigenous Pathways Program (IPP) had the opportunity to participate in a complimentary ‘Inner Sanctum’ Experience with the Brisbane Bullets during their Indigenous Round Game.
BNSW staff members Darren Allie (Indigenous, Cultural & Linguistically Diverse Programs Manager) and Lauren King (Regional Development Officer Far North) were joined by a handful of players and 14 coaches for this money-can’t-buy experience. This exciting day was offered to coaches in the Northern region, similar to the Inner Sanctum experience with the Illawarra Hawks last year, which was offered to the Southern region coaches.
The day began by collecting all the coaches and attendees from three locations in Northern NSW – Lismore, Ballina, and Chinderah – before heading to the Nissan Arena in Queensland.
Afterwards, the coaches attended the Brisbane Bullets shoot-around, followed by a discussion with the Bullets Assistant Coaches (alongside some Queensland coaches). Additionally, Brian Kerle and Claude Williams (First Sydney Kings Coach and inaugural Indigenous Head Coach in the NBL) joined the coaches for an interactive Q&A session.
Following the informative and motivating talks, a catered lunch was provided for all attendees, before lacing up their training shoes and jumping on the court to shoot around and learn from the Bullets’ Game Development Coach. The coaches then got to debrief and explore the area, ahead of watching the Brisbane Bullets vs South East Melbourne Phoenix Indigenous Round game – from seats with a magnificent view.
BNSW would like to express sincere gratitude to Jay McCracken, Head of Community and Development and his team from the Brisbane Bullets for organising a fantastic event that will be cherished by all participants for years to come! The valuable insights and knowledge acquired during the day will be applied in their coaching and playing endeavors.
Check out a recap of the amazing day HERE!