By PETER DOUGLAS
EMERALD Lakers junior basketballers will soon boast one of the best home-court advantages in their league.
The previously homeless club, which has more than 200 players, will this month start playing at one of the newest and best basketball stadiums in the region, thanks to a newly constructed facility at the Emerald Primary School.
Thanks to much support from the school, the club and La Trobe MP Jason Wood, the stadium has been constructed inside the school grounds and features a full-size and a junior-size basketball court, as well as plenty of room for family and spectators.
The Emerald Lakers and the school will share the facility.
Taking advantage of the stadium will be junior basketballers who range in age from eight to 14, and who make up an incredible 35 teams.
Emerald Primary School principal, Mark Carver, said much great work had been completed behind the scenes.
“What we have is a fantastic community resource and we’ll make great use of the facility, now the Lakers have a domestic base where they can train and play.
“Without Jason Wood’s great support, this would never have happened.”
Mr Carver said the school would use the premises to conduct sports lessons and events.
Meanwhile, Lakers coach Criss Johnston said it would deliver top-level facilities to eager young sports fans.
Emerald Lakers Basketball Club was formed in 1989 and has continued to be a strong community sporting club.
The club has always been committed to providing opportunities for all levels of players to join in and have some fun, regardless of their skill.
The club will celebrate an open day for the stadium on Sunday, 22 November, with an official launch planned next year with Mr Wood.
