Top Australian Academy in Samoa

By Ulimasao Fata 26 September 2017, 12:00AM

A group from a top basketball Academy in Brisbane Australia is in Samoa.

The team from the, Brian Kerle Academy, arrived last week and they have been busy visiting schools and various community groups to interact and conduct training clinics.

Director and Olympian, Brian Kerle, told the Samoa Observer their visit is to promote basketball to the young children of Samoa.

“We want to be able to help and give out our knowledge of the game to young kids here in Samoa,” he said.

“I have coached lots of Samoan students and athletes in Australia and they have become pros of the game”.

A member of the team, Jada Fa’anana-Schultz, said her parents run a charity event for Brisbane Australia and this trip was also part of their work.

 “We had lots of fundraising going in order to provide stationeries for the students and to promote Basketball. This trip we have extended the charity to provide for some of the schools in Samoa.

“This was all part of our goal of giving out and sharing to the kids here in Samoa and we hope this will be the first visit of many more to come.”

Once in Samoa, the group had a busy schedule.

 “We have visited Laulii Primary and Letogo Primary Schools and gave out stationeries with basketball clinics there.”

The Brian Kerle team also scheduled a few friendly games with the local Basketball Association. The group is also visiting Fiamalamalama School before they board the ferry to Savai’i.

Team member, Max Kerle, said they have absolutely loved their time in Samoa.

“The weather is so good and we just love seeing the passion of young kids of Samoa towards the game,” Max said.

The Brian Kerle Basketball team’s trip is also a significant step for the development of the sport in Samoa, according to Basketball development Officer, Linda Kelsall.

“Their coming over has not only benefitted the young kids but also our basketball team in conducting friendly games so we can learn from them and adapt to their level.” 

By Ulimasao Fata 26 September 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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