By Claire Hargreaves

It was a big weekend for the region's basketball players – Dubbo had a representation of 26 including players and staff attend a training weekend in Canberra. The 23 athletes from Dubbo are part of the 50-player WRAS Basketball squad which is a huge reflection of the talent we have here in Dubbo.

Cath Raidavatea has taken on the role of camp mum which is awesome. Cath comes with a lot of experience being mum to past Dubbo basketball players Jonah and Amelia. Amelia is now in America playing for Weber State as a freshman. Jonah is in Townsville on a rugby league scholarship with the Cowboys.

Chrystal Thompson has joined the WRAS coaching staff, bringing her own player experience and coaching as part of the indigenous player development. This is my second year as an assistant coach working under Adam Majoram who is an excellent head coach and mentor.

The athletes travelled to Canberra on Friday, picking up players along the way in Wellington, Orange and Blayney.

Players spent the day at The Dome training alongside the Southern Academy which includes players from Albury, Griffith, West Wyalong and other Riverina towns.

A total of over 80 players enjoyed mixing and learning new skills over the two days.

Players had the chance to play against SSA on the Sunday, showing great promise for the seasons ahead.