Zitina Aokuso, Inspiring the Young
The young athletes aged 11-13yrs, who where selected for the 2016 FDP program have been attending an eight week series of training sessions which will culminate in Basketball Queensland’s U14 Future Development Program All State Basketball camp on the Gold Coast at the end of this month. We sent interview questions to all the attendees to find out how they feel about being selected for FDP, what they are enjoying about the program and what inspired them to take up the sport. Their answers are touching, articulate, funny and above all, sum up the passion and enthusiasm they have for Basketball.
Jessica Boundy – Gold Coast North Seahawks 
Who is your favourite coach and why?
Rob Sleaford, because he is very encouraging but also very strict. He motivates me and inspires me to play with heart. Being a strict coach, he likes to have everyone in the right positions and running the game the right way so we have the best chance against the opposition.
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
I have really enjoyed learning new and important parts of basketball. Most things I have learnt I didn’t know before I started FDP, therefore I have not only improved my game but also my training sessions. I have made a lot of new friends and also caught up with some of the girls from other places that I don’t normally see.
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
I am looking forward to competing against the other team because it will be a good test to see how much we have improved
and also, to use the new skills that I have learnt.
It will be very exciting to stay in the sports centre so I can get to know some of other girls that I haven’t met before.
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program…
New skills, friendships and experiences.
Indiah (Indi) – Cairns Dolphins 
Who is your favourite coach and why?
Brian Waters – Because he made me work hard so I can achieve my goals and he made see basketball differently. Kevin Holden – he made basketball fun he made me work hard and believe in myself.
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
Mya Moore – She inspires me because she is hardworking, she has good ball handling skills and her attitude towards the game. Patty Mills he inspires me because he is indigenous, he is really good at covering the court and has good teamwork.
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
The intensity and new techniques and skills we learn.
What are you looking forward to about the U14 camp?
Meeting new people, learning more about the game and improving the way I play.
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program…
Learning and developing new skills.
Shaia Tautua – Ipswich Basketball Association 
Who is your favourite coach and why?
My favourite coach is Calvin Hegvold. Calvin is the reason that I am the player that I am today. He taught me the basic skills of Basketball and pushed me to my limits. He always taught me new skills that I could use on a Basketball Court.
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
I am inspired by Steph Curry because of his incredible dribbling skills. Steph Curry is also a very hard working player.
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
I have enjoyed meeting new coaches. I have also enjoyed making new friends and developing new skills that I can use on a Basketball Court.
What are you looking forward to about the U14 camp?
I am looking forward to being able to show my skills that I have learnt. I am also looking forward to playing a game of basketball with my new friends.
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program…
Having fun and learning lots!
Samuel – Cairns Marlins 
Who is your favourite coach and why?
My favourite coach is Tonya Stattmann. She has coached me for two representative seasons. Tonya is tough and competitive during a game and training sessions, but caring and supportive away from the court.
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
My basketball idol is Lebron James. He’s an extremely talented and hard working player.
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
Training with my friends and learning new skills.
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
I am looking forward to meeting and training with the other Queensland boys, and learning as much as I can from other coaches.
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program
Improved skills, Friendships and Confidence
Shaylee -Townsville Basketball Inc 
Who is your favourite coach and why?
I joined basketball at the age of 6 and since then I have had the benefit of being coached by many wonderful coaches through club and representative teams. The coach I would say is my favourite would be Alison Ward. I have had the chance to train under her many times with club and rep and she has not only helped me to improve my skills through her trainings over the years but she has also helped me to develop my knowledge of the game. She trains us hard but makes the sessions heaps of fun at the same time.
Who is your basketball idol?
I don’t really have one particular idol however I admire the whole Townsville Fire team and love attending their training camps and going to all of their home games.
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
I have enjoyed all of the trainings so far especially trying to improve my shot, making my left hand stronger and learning moves to the basket. All of the coaches and the other girls have made these sessions extremely fun.
What are you looking forward to about the U14 camp?
Meeting new people, developing my skills and learning how I can further improve.
In five words of less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the future development program…
F – Friendships
D – Developing my skills and knowledge
P – Personal goals being achieved.
Ainslie Minogue – Townsville Flames 
Who is your favourite coach and why?
Alison Ward because she is clear, direct and persistent, which enhances my abilities.
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
Lauren Jackson because she always strived to achieve her best despite the many injuries she has faced.
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
That you get to develop your abilities at your own pace.
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
Meet new friends whilst improving my skills.
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program…
Improving my skills and teamwork.
Mekkija – Bundaberg Bears
Who is your favourite coach and why?
I have had a few great coaches but there are two I will never forget. Sean Mullaney or as a lot of us call him Mr M. Mr M was my grade 4 teacher and he nagged me nearly every day for two years to play basketball. His nagging eventually payed off and I have never looked back. Mr M encourages me with everything I do, and has always been positive. He is my FDP training coach and has been amazing, pushing me hard and taught me its the little things that mean the most.
The next is Larry Daniels, our Bundaberg Bulls QBL coach. I have only Know Larry since last year but I will never forget an inspirational conversation I had with him last year about the game, about my game, how to make goals and achieve the goals and become the best player I can be. I train with him now and there are so many things about my game I have noticed I have improved in.
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
I do not have one basketball idol but a number of players that I find inspirational. Lauren Jackson because she continually works hard, Racheal Sporn who was a fantastic player in the 1990’s and was an amazing rebounder, Trish Fallon a magic player up both ends of the court and Penny Taylor who is an amazing strength with a huge presence up both ends of the court. If I could achieve just some of what these players have it would be awesome. Their achievements encourage me to work hard to become the best player I can.
I don’t mind Russel Westbrook in the NBA also, his speed
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
The FDP trainings have been great, its helping me with my ball skills, shooting ability, passing and all round technique. I also think that Mr M being the coach has made the trainings to be as good as they are. He pushes me hard and continually encourages me whether I am hitting or missing shots, fumbling the ball or making the lay ups.
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
I don’t know any of the other girls going to the camp, so I am looking forward to meeting some new people along with learning new ways to increase my ability to shoot, dribble, defend, move my feet and basic skills to improve my game and game fitness.
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program…
Inspiration, friendship, intensity, fun, challenge
Jake – Townsville Heat
Who is your favourite coach and why?
Jared because he is really funny and loves basketball as much as me
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
Lebron James because he is a great player and a great person
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
Playing one on one with all the other boys
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
Hanging out with all the other boys from Brisbane and learning some new stuff
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program…
Effort and Hard Work
Tane Kirisome – Logan Thunder
Who is your favourite coach and why?
Greg Day, he has always been there for me, he teaches me the fundamentals and is always having fun.
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
Allen Iverson because he is short fast and very talented. He has overcome a tough childhood to succeed in his sport, basketball. And he ankle broke Michael Jordan.
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
Meeting new people just like me, intense training and drills the coaches take us through.
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
More training, more new people and a challenge.
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program…
Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger (Kanye)
Chailee Ward – Townsville Flames
Who is your favourite coach and why?
Alison Ward, her knowledge and teaching make basketball enjoyable. (special mention to Mike, Claudia and Rachel)
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
Rachel McCully (former Townsville Fire captain) Plays the same position PG and was smart at both ends of the floor.
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
Learning from QLD High Performance manager Scott Butler
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
Training against the best players from the other associations and catching up with players from last year’s camp.
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program…
Opportunity to develop my game.
Danielle (Dani) – Southern Districts Spartans
Who is your favourite coach and why?
Judy Lane. Judy introduced me to basketball and is today a mentor and a big support.
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
Tiana Mangakahia – Tiana is a really good player, when she plays she is dynamic and she has the skills and plays I admire and want to be able to do when I grow up.
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
Learning new skills and meeting new people.
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
Improving my play, working on my skills and developing as a player.
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program…
Skills, work ethic great coaches and friends.
Reagan – Cairns Marlins
Who is your favourite coach and why?
Tonya Stattmann because she is organised and understands how boys’ brains work.
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
Kevin Durant because he plays my position and has been awarded MVP. Most importantly he acknowledges those who have helped him reach his potential.
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
Learning how to communicate better with teammates.
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
Meeting new people and working with some different coaches.
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program…
Stronger, faster, more committed!
Holly – Sunshine Coast Phoenix
Who is your favourite coach and why?
Rob Ward because he has taught me skills that I will use forever in basketball.
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
Stef Curry because his skills are outstanding.
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
Drills, defense and dribbling techniques, and meeting new people.
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
Learning new things and getting to know new people.
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program…
Being a better basketball player.
Chandler – Rockhampton
Who is your favourite coach and why?
Don’t have a favourite
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
Lebron James, he’s so competitive.
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
Ball handling skills
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
Seeing my friends and playing ball.
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program…
High level coaching and competition.
Lucie – Townsville U14G Flames
Who is your favourite coach and why?
I have been coached by a lot of great coaches and I like them all because they have given me a good experience of basketball.
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
Any basketball player that has made big teams really, because I know they have tried really hard to make it.
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
It has been a good experience and I am learning heaps
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
To see what it’s like and to learn new things that will help me develop as a player. Also to meet new people.
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program…
Developing a lot!
Charlotte – Seahawks GC
Who is your favourite coach?
My favourite coach is Rob Sleaford. As a bottom age player for U14s in 2014/15 Rob helped me push past my comfort zone. He has inspired me to become a better player and also a better person in general. Rob was always there for me and was willing to give advise if anyone asked him for some.
Who is your basketball idol?
My idol is Dana Raguz. Dana isn’t a professional player but she is very inspiring to me. She is a very strong and aggressive player. Dana also always has a positive attitude even if she knows she has done something wrong she still has a positive attitude towards everything and everyone.
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
I have enjoyed making new friends across South Queensland. I have also enjoyed just all round the opportunity I have been given to work with a bunch of high level coaches and players.
What are you looking forward to about U14 Camp?
I’m looking forward to being all together with a bunch of other girls from across Queensland who show the same interest and passion as myself. I also look forward to learning better techniques and new skills.
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being apart of the Future Development Program…
Skills, Memories, Life Long Friends
Shorna – Pacific Pines Panthers (club) and Gold Coast (rep)
Who is your favourite coach?
Pero Cameron because he has taught me a lot of skills that help my basketball.
Who is your basketball idol?
Stehen Curry – cause he has mad skills
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
Given me skills that I haven’t been taught before. Pushed me further towards my goal
What are you looking forward to about U14 Camp?
To see where it takes my basketball skills. What i can learn and develop.
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being apart of the Future Development Program…
more skills and understanding basketball.
Preston – Gold Coast Waves
Who is your favourite coach and why?
Shaun Gleeson – because he taught me new ball handling skills and worked on my shooting form
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
Matthew Dellavedova – When I was 6 years old I watched him train with the Boomers squad and asked him to sign my cap. He questioned me saying “are you sure you want me to sign your new cap”. I have always liked the way he plays with hustle, is a great decision maker and is a supportive teammate.
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
Learning new offensive moves and defensive drills. I have also enjoyed playing basketball with my mates again.
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
Applying everything I have learnt to game situations and making new friendships.
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program
Develop skills for State representation
Kate – I play for USCBC 
Who is your favourite coach and why?
My favourite Coach is Leah who I have had for Under 12 and this past season. She pushes me and has confidence in me but also knows that I still have lots to learn. She is also a pretty good player.
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
My basketball idol is Allen Iverson because I saw him in a game ankle break Michael Jordan!!!!! , and he was pretty short for a basketballer but an amazing player.
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
I missed out on participating on the first week as I had a broken scaphoid and ligament damage to my thumb, then I participated in the second week (paid the price in pain the next day) BUT LOVED IT. I love that it improves my skills.
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
I am looking forward to the camp because its 5 DAYS OF BASKETBALL BASKETBALL BASKETBALL Why wouldn’t we look forward to that!
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program
IMPROVED SKILLS, FITNESS, ACCURACY & HUNGER (for the game)
Dominic Brisbane Capitals 14 gold
Who is your favourite coach and why?
Coach Popovic (Antonio Spurs) I like his ability to achieve the discipline in his players to achieve the goals of the team. He builds trust in the relationship between him and each player individually.
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
Kevin Durant. He always brings energy to the team e.g. he brings rhythym claps , advice , and positive feedback to his team-mates. He has all round skills
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
The people , the high standards and expectations push you to be uncomfortable , which brings out your full potential
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
Developing a closer friendship and bond with my squad, and to further develop my skills
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program
To maximize my opportunity and potential
Izaiah -Gold Coast Waves
Who is your favorite coach and why?
My favourite coach has been Coach Brendan LeGassick because of how he has put so much time and effort into developing my skill set and improving me as a team player and a leader.
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
I am inspired by Kevin Durant, I look up to his love of the game, his confidence in himself, how well he leads his team and his knowledge of the game.
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
I have definitely enjoyed competing and growing with players of the highest level in my age group. The coaching and knowledge i have received in such a short time period is unbelievable. It has been a great experience so far and I am looking forward for the next 6 weeks.
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
I’m looking forward to spending time with boys and coaches who share my passion of the game and are willing to learn and improve.
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program…
High Level of Improvement/Knowledge
Harrison – Southern Districts Spartans
Who is your favourite coach and why?
My Dad because he has helped me find the new limits that it takes for me to be a better player. I need to prove to myself on the court that all his belief and our time and effort sees the results I want. I know how he watches the US College Basketball and NBA games and documentaries so he can bring new drills and stories to my life. It’s important to my Dad as a coach that the players listen and follow instructions. It’s all about the team playing together and I really like that everybody’s best work can bring about a win.
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
Michael Jordan because he has inspired me from his diehard attitude and how much effort he puts in to the game. Every time he steps on the court he gives 110%. His quote – “Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, so make it happen.” is my favourite.
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
I have liked all of the trainings and getting to know some new boys that I have played against but not truly known as people. Coach Leonard’s jokes at the trainings when we do something wrong are so funny – and then one of the coaches will help me with my mistake so I will know what to do next time. You can have fun whilst working hard.
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
To play with the Northern boys will be exciting. Going to the camp at the end of June, seeing who is in my cabin and then training with boys who love basketball as much as I do will be the highlights.
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program…
Being stronger defensively and offensively.
Ky – The Cairns Marlins
Who is your favourite coach and why?
Both my Mum and dad because they have taught me from a young kid and I wouldn’t be as good as I am without their passion and knowledge of the game
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
Steph Curry, cause he is an amazing player
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
Being with my friends and bettering my skills
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
Meeting and training with other good players and learning new skills
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program…
Better Offence Better Defence
Christian Lang – Redlands PCYC Pride
Who is your favourite coach and why?
Billy Brady. He’s nice and he has a good mentality for the game
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
My step brothers who have played basketball at a high level
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
It has been challenging and there has been hard work.
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
To learn more about basketball, in mentality and in skills.
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program…
Become a better player.
Mitchell Stanton- Northside Wizards #6
Who is your favourite coach and why?
My Rep coach, Al Waldron, because he believes in me and is always pushing me to be my best.
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
My coach says I remind him of Russell Westbrook (Oklahoma City Thunder). I have watched youtube videos of him and he is pretty good.
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
Learning new skills and meeting new people.
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
Playing with and against some of the best U14 basketball boys in Queensland and being away from my 2 sisters.
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program…
Skills, friendship, development, adventure & opportunity.
Nicholas – Toowoomba Mountaineers
Who is your favourite coach and why?
Pop Dickerson, he was my first coach and has coached me since I was 4. He taught me fundamentals, drills and especially how to shoot well and has introduced me to many offence and defensive plays later in rep.
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
Patty Mills, because he is an indigenous Australian and has worked hard to perform well at basketball, which has shown, as now he plays in the NBA with the San Antonio Spurs.
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
I have enjoyed playing with kids who are at high levels, and I like how the coaches run the trainings, starting with 1 on 1, then 2 on 2, then finally 3 on 3.
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
I am looking forward to playing just basketball for 4 days, working on skills and trying to keep my fitness and work ethic up throughout the whole camp.
In 5 words or less tell what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program…
Perform well at state level.
Grace Seahawks GC
Who is your favourite coach and why?
Michelle Trinder (Logan Girls U12.1 Coach) because she was always positive and motivational. When the team felt flat or demotivated, she had the ability to identify the problems and knew what advise worked. Always patting us on the back, giving honest feedback and providing solutions in a caring way. She always provided very good ‘tips & tricks’ that always worked and got me over the line.
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
Brianna Stewart – Centre Forward – from UCONN Huskies – Connecticut USA.
She’s tall, quick, a good leader, dedicated and a great team player.
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
I love learning new skills and techniques like the ‘C-Rip’. I feel very welcome – by the Coaches I’ve met. They are very interested in my development and progress. It’s a supportive environment where they encourage me to be my best but also make mistakes and try new things. I really like making new friends with the different girls Im meeting and training with.
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
Training at the same venue that the athletes for the 2018 Commonwealth Games will be training. To create new friendships and get to know my team mates better. Having 4 days to concentrate just on Basketball alone. Spending time independently.
In 5 words or less tell me what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program…
Confidence, Skills, Friendships, Knowledge, and Basketball IQ
Lloyd McVeigh -Gold Coast
Who is your favourite coach and why?
Brendan leggasick because he has been my coach for 3 years and has developed me into the player i am today. He inspires me to work and play hard every second.
Who is your basketball idol (player or coach that you are inspired by) and why?
Jack McVeigh becasue he is my elder brother and is a great basketballer and he inspires me to be like him and better.
What have you enjoyed about the FDP so far?
I have enjoyed enjoyed getting know more great basketballers and getting to know what the QLD teams are all about.
What are you looking forward to about the U14 Camp?
I am looking forward to challenging myself against other great players that will help me get better at the game. i am also looking forward to meeting the players from the north and central.
In 5 words or less tell me what you think you will get out of being part of the Future Development Program…
Improving as much as I can!
Is your child attending the FDP Camp this year their response to the interview questions have not been posted? Please resend the email to [email protected] and we will add them.
Related posts
Hello.. my name is jason watt.. my son willem has been traning with the under14 boys in the FDP.. i have been told a few boy’s will not be going to the camp on this up and coming Sunday.. willem was a reserve and only by word of mouth i was told reserves will not be going on the camp.. can you please confirm this and also confirm if their are any available spots…
Hi Jason,
Someone should be in contact soon with more information.
Kind Regards,
Natasha Zoller
Marketing Coordinator