Junior hoops event to take over region
The annual Shepparton Junior Basketball Tournament is back bigger and better this year.
The 41st annual showpiece for young players in this region starts today across Shepparton and neighbouring towns.
Almost 200 teams, full of some of the best junior talent in the state, will storm into the Goulburn Valley today and give the region an economic boost of more than $1 million.
Teams are coming all the way from Warrnambool, Warragul, Traralgon, Portland, Deniliquin, Melbourne, along with sides from much closer to Shepparton in Benalla and Echuca.
Shepparton Sports Stadium will be the main venue, but games will also be played at Visy Centre, Mercy Stadium, Goulburn Valley Grammar School, Guthrie St Primary School, Kyabram Sports and Entertainment Centre, Tatura Stadium, McGuire Secondary College, Baptist Church, Goulburn Valley Christian College, St George’s Rd Primary School and St Luke’s Primary School.
Shepparton Gators teams will have a number of opportunities to impress, with chances to keep some silverware in town.
The Dylan Wayman-coached under-18 boys’ team is coming off a successful campaign at the Wangaratta month.
After a number of near-misses to open the season, the Gators saluted in the grand final at that tournament with a thrilling overtime win against the hosts.
Matches will start early today and run right through until about 9 pm at most venues. tournament last