One of the biggest annual sports weekends in Shepparton is upon us as the Greater Shepparton Junior Basketball tournament returns.
On Saturday, December 2, and Sunday, December 3, Shepparton and surrounding towns will be hit with a wave of young ballers travelling from across the state to compete in the tournament.
More than 200 teams will play across almost 20 courts in the region.
The event is entirely organised by volunteers and will utilise local officiating talent, with more than 120 referees set to grace the court during the weekend.
Greater Shepparton Basketball Association competition manager Tony Long is particularly proud of this aspect of the tournament.
“Coming out of COVID, we had 10 umpires, today, our referee co-ordinator Ataliah has advanced that number to 75 and, across this tournament, most will have the opportunity to showcase their referee ability and skill,” Long said.
GSBA president Peter Sutherland said the phone never stopped ringing with towns wanting to play in the tournament and that the impact of it on the local economy could not be overstated.
Association junior representative Mary-Ann Barton said the event’s growth illustrated how well basketball was done in Shepparton.
“Our officials are backed by passionate and proactive volunteers that come together to deliver a great tournament for the kids,” she said.
The tournament is for junior players from under-12 through to under-18 and will run from roughly 8am to 8pm each day.
The public is invited to come along and watch at any of the venues, free of charge.