Positive Choices program continues as Mountaineers engage community

A staple of the Mountaineers, the Positive Choices program continues for another season across the region.

John and Jacqui Armstrong with Toowoomba Mountaineers QSL women's coach Matt Cox. Photo: Sean Teuma.

BASKETBALL: The Positive Choices program has been a staple of the Mountaineers for a number of years.

The circumstances around its formation are tragic, but the club hopes the despair of losing two of their own to the poor decisions of another will lead a new generation.

Started in 2013 in memory of players Stacey Ricther and Stephanie Mylonas who were tragically killed by a driver under the influence, the Positive Choices Program enters its eighth year.

Operations director John Gouldson said they hope to reach as many children as possible to spread the message of making positive choices through basketball.

“As a group we can put our heads together and just let that be, or we can do something in memory of them,” he said.

“There are a number of pathway activities ranging from clinics, physical education, Friday night competitions and club basketball.

“We talk about thoughts leading to choice of actions leading to good outcomes.”

Women’s QSL coach Matt Cox said the chance to spread the basketball message across the region had a big impact.

“It’s a fantastic program to reach out across the region,” he said.

“We have many schools on the Darling Downs which means we have many opportunities to get kids involved in basketball.

“It’s something we hold dear to our hearts here, but also the good things that come back on the life skills that evolve from that. It’s why I think this program is important.”

Armstrong Auto Group dealer principal John Armstrong said his business was more than happy to continue its commitment.

“We’ve got a long history with the Toowoomba Basketball Association and the Mountaineers, and this is another way to continue that tradition,” Armstrong said.

The Toowoomba Mountaineers host the Gold Coast Rollers at the Clive Berghofer Recreation Centre, USQ on Friday. Women’s action tips off at 6pm with the men to start at 8pm.