Scotch College

An Historic Night for Scotch Basketball

An Historic Night for Scotch Basketball

Tuesday 12 August saw the Glenn Centre gymnasium invaded at 4:15 pm by 40 enthusiastic players keen on winning a "Three-on-Three" competition that was the first stage of the newly-formatted Basketball Presentation Night. Competition was very keen for the prizes generously donated by Kickz 101 basketball store, with the Grand Final at 5:15 a cliffhanger played in front of 140 spectators. Victory went to Troy Sandley, Chris Taylor, Jack Houghton and Tom Eldredge who edged out runners-up Edward Cowan, Chris Colman, Quentin Hanley and Elliot Baxter, 15 to 14.

Players gave team reports and for Year 7 and 8 teams, their awards were presented by Jim Frame ('69), the inaugural Slam Dunk Club president.

The evening's highlight then followed. Murray Brust (Caulfield Grammar ('80), a professional basketball stadium commentator, introduced the 2003 First team, captained by Angus Gray. Then it was the turn of former first team captains (FFTCs) stretching from 2001 back to 1986 (including '91 and '95 Premier captains, Adrian Hughes and Andrew Crow) who were intent on showing they'd "been there, and still have it!" Last to be introduced was the suit-clad captain of both the '72 and '73 teams, Ralph Wilson, who tossed the coin to commence proceedings. The FFTCs chose to use the wind in the first half, but took a while to get shots to drop. A spectacular run of four 3-pointers in the last five minutes by Firsts' Julian Deschepper saw the students with a 24 - 18 lead at half time. Those spectators with their backs to the scoreboard were kept up to date with an accurate and, at times, amusing commentary by Murray. Not to be outdone, in the first five minutes of the second half, Brett Mummery ('97) let loose with three 3-pointers of his own to level scores at 26 apiece. With Andrew Hayne ('92) getting everything off the boards, the FFTCs gradually pulled away to win a highly-entertaining and very skilful game 56 points to 42. The match had been a terrific spectacle enjoyed by all players and spectators, and a buffet dinner afterwards provided an opportunity for much catching up and many basketball tales to be swapped.

This match will be a certainty to appear on next year's Scotch calendar.

Back Row: Matthew Alexander ('99), Andrew Whitwell ('00), Andrew Hayne ('92), Rob Hortin (Coach), Brett Mummery ('97), Andrew Crow ('95-Premiers), Ben Ingamells ('96), Scott Reid ('86) and Brent Dankestreither ('90)
Front Row: David Forsyth ('98), Rob Sadler ('93) and Adrian Hughes ('91-Premiers).

The evening concluded with remarks from Rob Hortin, coach of the First team and one-time mentor of all the former captains who were victorious in the match that had thrilled everyone present. As Presentation Nights go, the format of active participation by the majority present was exceedingly well received, and similar style events are envisaged for the future.

Neville Taylor
Teacher In Charge - Basketball