Ten young Willetton basketballers are preparing to take on the nation, proudly representing Western Australia at this month’s School Sport Australia Interstate Basketball Championships in Queensland.
Among them are Luke Martin, Holly Green, Kailen Harrison, and Aurelia Little.
The news of his selection came as a shock, for 16-year-old Luke.
“It took a few weeks for it to settle in,” he said.
“All my hard work and dedication had paid off.”
Twelve-year-old Holly had a different reaction. She was excited not only for herself, but for the chance to reunite with girls she had trained alongside during trials.
Kailen was simply grateful.
“I can’t wait for the opportunity to play in the tournament,” he said.
Aurelia, on the other hand, described the moment as a privilege. While she was excited to be named in the team, she also felt the weight of how tough selections can be.
“There are so many worthy players, but only 10 spots available,” she said.
“I’m looking forward to representing WA and travelling with my amazing teammates.”
Each player is heading into the tournament with their own sense of purpose and anticipation.
Luke is eager to pull on the black and gold and compete against the best juniors from around Australia, something he’s dreamed of since childhood.
For Kailen, the excitement lies in the challenge ahead and the chance to bond with his teammates. Holly is looking forward to learning from a new coach and testing her skills in a fresh team environment. And for Aurelia, it’s about improvement, soaking in every bit of experience while supporting her friends on and off the court.
All four have deep roots with the Willetton Basketball Association, where their journey began. Holly started playing when she was five or six.
Luke picked up the ball at age seven. Kailen began at nine.
Aurelia says she’s been playing for over half her life.
What keeps them coming back is more than competition.
Holly loves playing with friends. Luke does well with the challenge. Kailen said the team aspect fuels his passion. For Aurelia, basketball is an escape; a place where everything else fades away and the game becomes all that matters.
Willetton, they all agree, has made them as athletes.
Luke said the club has equipped him with the tools he needs to grow. Kailen credited the coaches who believed in him and pushed him to improve. Holly praised the work ethic instilled by her coaches. And Aurelia said the challenges she’s faced at the club have helped build her confidence and character.
“Willetton has given me the opportunities to improve,” Aurelia said.
“This year my coach has given great advice and pushed me to be better.”
She spoke highly of coach Brad Armstrong, who focuses not just on skill, but mindset.
“He reminds me that what he’s teaching me shouldn’t be easy; otherwise, what’s the point?” she said. “Hard work creates opportunities.”
All four athletes draw inspiration from different places. Holly looks up to Damien Scott for his energy and commitment.
Luke takes motivation from WA’s own Luke Travers and Ben Henshall, who went from local courts to the professional stage.
Kailen credits his family and friends for their support.
Aurelia is driven by the guidance of her coach, who holds her accountable and helps her think long-term.
Now, with the tournament just around the corner, the athletes have their different goals. Holly wants to be the best player she can be and support her team.
Luke is aiming to help bring home a gold medal. Kailen is focused on a strong team performance, and ultimately hopes to play at the highest level he can.
Aurelia is determined to be a steady, motivating presence on the court, with hopes of earning a U.S. college basketball scholarship in the future.
For now, though, their focus is on Queensland, and doing WA proud.
