During the school holidays, the children stormed the courts with the help of loyal Buccaneers fans for the second successful year of the Breathe Basketball Mega Camp.
Now in its second year, the camp was founded and run by Buccaneers veteran Liam Hunt, with help from his father Dan Hunt and brother Jesse Hunt, and supports young and enthusiastic basketball players from the local area during the school holidays.
From July 1-4, children with varying basketball skills and knowledge were invited to attend the camp so they could improve their skills in a team environment.
After a successful first year, Liam Hunt said he wasn’t sure the support would be as great this year, but the community response has exceeded his expectations.
“I have over 100 campers… I love the game, but I think what I love most is seeing so many kids and even coaches just having so much fun,” he said.
“I didn’t think we would get over 80 this year, but we have exceeded that target. That is a great credit to the public.”
The children are divided into teams that they will work together in throughout the four-day camp, participating in skill exercises and playing games.
Which, according to Liam Hunt, was great for their growth.
“I teach a lot of these kids … I know some of them struggle with making friends and creating a team environment, and I see that they love being with their team at recess and lunch,” he said.
“They can make friends, hopefully for life. That is a big plus for them and also for the camp.”
“Lots of smiles, everyone moves the ball and just has a lot of fun playing.”
Like all children attending camp, the Geraldton Buccaneers players have donated their time throughout the week to help run activities or referee games.
Liam Hunt said his Buccaneers teammates have been a big help.
“We’ve had Josh Keyes, Johny Narkle is obviously a fans’ favourite… some of the young guys like Campbell Surtees, Jake Criddle, Bob Griechen, our assistant coach Carter Cook… the quality of coaches we have here is outstanding,” he said.
“Also Will Galvin, he’s our two-time championship player… the kids just learn so much from him.
“I am very humbled and cannot thank them enough.”
Liam Hunt joked that he had to accept that he might not be the biggest name in town anymore.
“It’s fun with the kids. I always thought I was a fan favorite, but Johny (Narkle) has started to take that away from me now … it’s great to see him come out of his shell,” he said.
Liam Hunt said the Geraldton Sporting Aboriginal Corporation supported the camp.
“GSAC helped with the jerseys and trainers, brought fruit and water and also sponsored the participation of 10 campers,” he said.
“If (Adrian) Barty and GSAC hadn’t come, we would have to charge more for the camp.”