Berwick College Newsletter

Basketball Academy

Berwick College Basketball Academy – NBA Rising Stars Invitational Tour Recap

The Berwick College Basketball Academy boys’ team recently returned from an incredible experience, competing in the NBA Rising Stars Invitational Tournament in Singapore. The opportunity to represent the school and Australia on an international stage was a proud moment for all involved.

After a smooth flight from Melbourne and an early 3:30am check-in, the excitement was high. The trip began with Media Day, where our student-athletes wore their official NBA uniforms, took part in professional photoshoots and interviews, and handled themselves with maturity and pride. It was clear from the beginning that this group would represent Berwick College to the highest standard.

The tournament featured top school teams from across Southeast Asia. Our team opened their campaign with a strong performance, defeating United World College (Singapore) 95–61. In Game 2, they followed up with a dominant display against Nehru World School (India), winning 68–23. The boys showed excellent preparation and adaptability, especially as they encountered different styles of play and impressive height across their opponents.

In the semi-final, Berwick faced their toughest challenge yet, Tsinghua University High School (China), featuring three players over 7 feet tall. A rough 12–0 start didn’t rattle the boys for long. They regrouped, clawed their way back into the contest, and even led during the second quarter. Despite a hard-fought battle, Berwick eventually went down 68–78. The resilience, grit and teamwork on display were nothing short of outstanding.

Off the court, students embraced the opportunity to experience Singapore’s culture. A visit to Merlion Park and time spent mingling with international athletes brought new friendships and perspective. For several students, this was their first time travelling overseas, an experience that offered life lessons far beyond the basketball court. The boys immersed themselves fully, demonstrating exceptional behaviour, respect, and cultural awareness.

This tour provided far more than just high-level basketball. It allowed our players to gain a deeper appreciation for how sport can connect people globally. They returned not only as improved athletes but as more well-rounded individuals, grateful for what they have and inspired by what’s possible.

A special thank you goes out to our coaching staff, Gerard Leonard (Head Coach) and Shannan Davey (Assistant Coach/Tour Manager), for their leadership and care throughout the trip. Thanks also to the wider Berwick College community for your incredible support, whether streaming games in classrooms, sharing messages of encouragement, or following the journey online. This experience has highlighted just how strong and supportive our school community truly is. It was fantastic to see the entire school get behind the team, and we felt so proud to have so many staff showing their support throughout the tour. We’re honoured to be part of such a committed and connected community.

As we reflect on this experience, it serves as powerful motivation for all our Academy students. It reinforces our commitment to hard work, both in the classroom and on the court, as we aim to return to this tournament in future years.

We are so proud of the way these students represented Berwick College and Australia, with pride, integrity, and passion. They’ve set a high standard, and we’re excited to build on this momentum as we continue to grow the Berwick College Basketball Academy - Gerard Leonard

Victorian Secondary Schools Challenge

Last week, 12 Berwick College Basketball Academy teams competed in the State Finals of the Victorian Secondary Schools Challenge — a testament to the strength, depth and development of our academy, with outstanding results:

  • Junior Boys Division 1 – STATE CHAMPIONS defeating Flinders College 50–30 in the Grand Final
  • Senior Boys Division 1 – STATE CHAMPIONS defeating Rowville 29–25
  • Intermediate Boys Division 1 – Runners Up in a close one vs Flinders College, 28–33
  • Senior Girls Division 1 – Runners Up, falling to Rowville 29–37
  • Intermediate Boys White (Div 1) – Finished 3rd (3–2 record)
  • Intermediate Boys Silver (Div 1) – 5th place finish, showcasing our depth!
  • Junior Girls Division 2 – 3rd in pool (2–2 record)
  • Junior Boys Divisions 2 & Girls Division 1 – Both placed 3rd in pool
  • Intermediate Girls Division 1 – Battled a tough competition, finishing 4th in their pool
  • Intermediate Boys Division 2 (Berwick Blue) – Finished 5th

  • Senior Boys Division 2 – Finished 3rd (3–2 record)

    An incredible effort from all teams and coaching staff. Proud of how our students represented the academy at the highest level.