‘Searching for that gold’: South Coast Basketball on hunt for one better in 2024
One year after falling short in the grand final, South Coast Basketball is back on the Queensland School Sport stage hunting for gold in the under-16 boys. Meet the players back for revenge, plus hear what the returning coach has to say about his side’s chances:
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One year after falling short in the grand final, South Coast Basketball is back on the Queensland School Sport stage hunting for gold in the under-16 boys.
Led by returning head coach Tim Thompson, the side have the advantage of experience in 2024.
Most of the team were bottom age in 2023, but now know exactly what to expect and how to combat the pressure of bigger bodies.
“It’s great to have those boys back this year and we’ll definitely be searching for that gold medal,” Thompson said.
“I’m very excited, we’ve got a great group of talent with some very bright futures.”
Admittedly, the turnaround from selection to competition (being held in Cairns May 9-12) was short.
“We’ve had four training sessions, so I guess part of the struggle as coach is bringing all these star players into one team and getting them to work together.”
Now entering his sixth year of South Coast Basketball, Thompson knows the pressure will be on South Coast to perform.
“We’ve always got a target on our back, because of the players and teams that have come through before us and set a standard,” he said.
“It is a challenge, but nothing South Coast shies away from.”
Announced as captain a week out from competition, Mason Christiansen said his excitement was building by the day.
“I’m glad to be captain,” he said.
“It feels good after a lot of hard work and now being able to lead the team.”
Christiansen was one of the star bottom age players in 2023.
“I want to get that gold this year, so I’m really excited to get out there.
“We’ve got good players and good coach so it all flows really well.
“I’ve known some of the boys since under-12s, growing up together we’re all good mates.”
Meet the squad
Name: Mitchell Chen
Position: Centre
School: AB Patterson College
Comment: Mitch is an exciting young prospect. His ability to shoot the ball combined with his high basketball IQ is impressive for his age.
Name: Ayden Merrylees
Position: Guard
School: Kings Christian College
Comment: Ayden plays with 110 per cent intensity each and every game. His ability to push the ball at high speeds and defend full court is what caught selectors’ eyes.
Name: Mason Christiansen
Position: Guard
School: Southport SHS
Comment: Mason is a threat on both ends of the court. His strength and defence is elite with a work ethic and discipline well beyond his years. He has a very bright future ahead of him.
Name: Sam Scott
Position: Forward
School: Southport SHS
Comment: Sam is a top level scorer. His ability to shoot the open shot and score off the dribble is tough to defend at his position. Sam’s also boasts basketball IQ years above his on-paper experience.
Name: Stefan Stefanov
Position: Guard
School: Varsity College
Comment: Stefan is a workhorse. His ability to defend full court and push the ball at high speeds is outstanding, which is complemented by the admirable ‘team player’ attitude that he brings
Name: Cordell Peisley
Position: Forward
School: Varsity College
Comment: Cordell is a very versatile player. He can play inside the paint and shoot from outside, making him a tough defensive cover. Cordell is a natural leader and is always encouraging his teammates.
Name: Champ Dantzler
Position: Guard
School: Southport SHS
Comment: Champ brings energy and intensity to this team. He is a great team player and plays with heart, able to score with the ball but always a ‘pass first’ type of player.
Name: Lachlan Halloran
Position: Guard
School: St Stephen’s College
Comment: Lachlan is quick, agile and always gives 110 per cent every time he’s on the floor. He is a solid defender and has excellent court vision on the offensive end.
Name: Lincoln Schaeche
Position: Centre
School: Varsity College
Comment: Lincoln’s attention to detail is elite, with rebounding abilities and speed described as ‘simply insane’. He works extremely hard and can shoot the ball consistently from mid range.
Name: Vitus Weng
Position: Forward
School: Hillcrest Christian College
Comment: Vitus is a strong body with an ability to score in the paint under pressure. He has an explosive first step and is able to find an open player when needed.
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