Whiteley Warriors clinch league title and contribute towards their community

The Whiteley Warriors Basketball Club, situated in the bustling heart of Whiteley, has marked another successful year, becoming a major player in the local basketball scene with a roster of over 300 players, including 250 juniors.

The U12s team stood out with an illustrious season, winning the league title without losing a game in the Solent Area Basketball Association CVL league.

Notably, they accomplished this feat without a corporate sponsor. Instead, families came together to independently raise funds for the team.

They honoured Sophie’s Legacy, a charity close to their hearts, by adorning their jerseys with the charity’s yellow ribbon. Guided by the coaching of Mr Guy Wilcox, the U12s team achieved their second consecutive league victory under his mentorship.

On the other hand, the U16s team, led by Ms Lianne Miller, finished as runners-up in their league. Club directors Mr Gareth Birkett and Mr John Wilkins have been instrumental to the club’s success and maintain high standards of dedication and excellence.

Mr Birkett's recent receipt of Basketball England's Children Coach of the Year award for the South Region emphasises his commitment to developing young players.

Similarly, Mr Wilkins' selection as Captain of the GB Masters Over 35 Great Britain team showcases his leadership and skill both on and off the court.

The Whiteley Warriors have also been contributing to society through the Hoopz 4 Skoolz initiative that aims to provide local schools with access to basketball training.

This includes generous donations of hoops and balls to four local junior and primary schools, valued at over £3500, all while building a foundation for cultivating future basketball enthusiasts.

Outside of Whiteley, the club has reached out to establish the Gosport Gunners, another club with nearly 100 members who share the same ethos of excellence, camaraderie, and community engagement.

In addition, the dedicated Mr Andrew Bradshaw has been authorised to conduct Coaching Award certificates for Level 1 Intro to Basketball and Level 2 Coaching Awards.

By offering local courses, the club aims to assist other clubs throughout Hampshire, giving them the requisite tools and knowledge to nurture talent.

As the Whiteley Warriors continue to rise to new heights, they prove to be more than just a basketball club, playing an instrumental role as a community cornerstone.