On Sunday the 16th October 2011 a great crowd attended the Crusaders presentation at Club Terrigal, our new favourite sponsor. The Crusaders faithful enjoyed the great atmosphere and excellent food Club Terrigal offers. The many deserved winners received their trophies to the plaudits of the happy and social gathering and afterward showed that their skills weren't just confined to the basketball court with a game of barefoot bowls provided by the Club. Matt Johnston proved that sportsman aren't necessarily adept at all sports with an abysmal effort. Highlights of the day were the competitive nature of the Championship Men and this competitiveness augers well for 2012 Crusaders season.

Major Awards Crusaders 2011

Crusader of the Year -          Paige Melville

Club Person of the Year -      Shirley Hillmann

Technical Official of the Year -Anne Carroll

Waratah Championship Men 2011

MVP -                                Jason Taylor

Best Defensive -                  Alex Tyrrell

'WE' Award -                       Tim Anderson

State League Women 2011

MVP -                                Tristan Black

Best Defensive-                   Jacqui Hillmann

Coaches Award -                 Jo Mann

Youth League Men 2011

MVP -                                Callum Jenkins

Best Defensive -                  Sam Marler

Players Player-                   Steve Mackay

Youth League Women 2011

MVP -                                 Paige Melville

Best Defensive -                   Caitlin Eirth

Players Player-                    Gracie Lewis

Youth League Men (2) 2011

MVP -                                  Michael Witham

Best Defensive -                    Rhys Goodier

Players Player -                    Michael Cassidy

Plans are already under way for season 2012 and what an exciting new season it shapes up to be for the Crusaders. A fabulous new sponsorship deal with Club Terrigal in conjunction with new playing gear and apparel are just the beginning of a new dawn. Renewed interest abounds at the GCBSS with a real buzz emanating about the prospects for 2012.

With trials locked in for the 2nd and 9th of December and the 18th of December, a great and talented roll up is expected to attend. The word from the people around the place who know  is that the selections will be difficult which augurs well for a successful season for our teams.

On a personal note, congratulations to Matt Carroll and his beautiful partner Jess Dagher on the announcement of her pregnancy,  another Crusaders player on the way! 

The GCBSS Basketball Manager Matt Johnston, has left us to follow his coaching dream at Townsville where he has been seconded to the coaching staff of the Crocs and we wish him well in his new venture.

Drew Fenton has taken the new role of Operations Manager which is encompassing a variety of roles including the Basketball Manager’s position. I am sure you will join me in congratulating Drew and offering any assistance that he requires in the new position.