We have been asked on numerous occasions, and had some wild guesses too. Here is 'How we got to be......'
The majority of players at Stockport Phoenix were part of another local basketball club, I was a coach for the club and the teams were doing fantastic. The parents had a lot of involvement and gave some great support to what the young players were doing. The time came when questions were asked about the future of the teams and what rewards the club were going to give back to the people that mattered.... the players. The teams put not only effort into the club, but plenty of funds too. After a series of meetings, some heated, the owner of the club decided that it would be best if I were to leave and he also told a few players that they should go too, as they wouldn't be playing for him again. Very nice man!
So it was that Stockport Phoenix Basketball Club was formed. We were asked by a majority of parents to do something, to enable their children to continue to play basketball and hopefully stay as a team. We took on the challenge and formed the club, set up two teams and got the kids to play basketball, all in a days work ........ no chance ....... it was a tough challenge but we made it happen, thanks to the parents and the enourmous support they gave and continue to give.
We are now just over a year old, and what a success it has been! Yes I know it's easy to blow your own trumpet but it really is! The kids continue give their best efforts in both games and commitment. So what is different from the place we left to where we are.......? Our club was based on, and set up to support and reward young people, to enable them to reach their full potential in a challenging sport. We have players that have been chosen to play at a regional level in the Youth Games 2008. We have 7 players in a national league program representing the best in their age group, yes National League, 7 players from ONE team!! We have a major National restaurant chain giving their support to the club. There are events and rewards for the players, all from the proceeds of the funds of the club, we have coaches that are qualified by England Basketball, First Aiders qualified by St John's, Table officials and all paid for by the club, for the club. Yes my trumpet is loud and I will keep blowing it. My players deserve, and get the best that we can give them.
Look at the awards section and see what the players have achieved, yes we are that good, and we will continue to be the best, most rewarded and high achieving club in Stockport. We are proud that we can help kids become better players and better people.
Phil Foster.
