By Jamie Salter
The Clyde North Ravens Basketball team was formed during coronavirus lockdowns last year – one of the most difficult periods for community sport.
Michael and Leslie Juaneza were struggling to find a basketball club close to home for their two sons and decided to launch their own.
Michael has been playing, coaching and organising various basketball events since he was in the age of 14.
Leslie has been part of different basketball clubs and leagues throughout the Filipino-Australian Community in the South East.
The team officially opened in May but weren’t able to undergo consistent practice and training due to the fifth and sixth Victorian lockdowns.
Michael said that hasn’t deterred the team, which has grown from 32 members when the club was formed to its current total of 95 members.
“We are a family-orientated and community based basketball club that specialises in developing beginners,“ Michael said.
“Our coaches have over 25 years’ experience combined and we are the only club in the South East that has the exclusive Wings Program (under 6s) that develops young ballers from a very young age.“
Member for Gembrook Brad Battin recently visited the club and was presented his own Ravens top as an honorary member.
“He is a big advocate of the community and our basketball club,“ Michael said.
The club will be moving to its own facility in May in the industrial estates of Clyde North – the new home of the Ravens.
Winter season registrations are now being accepted.
For more information visit the Clyde North Ravens Facebook page and website cnravens.com.au
