Basketball double whammy

BASKETBALL players at Warrington’s Priestley College have notched up a double whammy.
They have added a cup final triumph to their title victory in the North West League division two – achieved by going unbeaten all season.
Priestley defeated Rossall School 65-41 in the cup final at Blackpool.
Team captain Jon-Saul Waldron Swift put the team’s success down to their camaraderie and input from Chester Jets coach John Lavery.
“Everyone has played really good, team basketball,” said the 17-year-old. “We have a great team chemistry and we all get on well together.”
Priestley won three matches in the cup playoffs, but Jon-Saul – who was named man of the match in the cup final – said the team’s biggest achievement was remaining undefeated in winning the North West League Division 2.
Jon-Saul, formerly of Bridgewater High School, said the input of a professional coach had made a huge difference to the Priestley College team.
“He’s made a difference to individual and team skills,” he said. “It’s his presence that makes the difference and whatever he says you listen to and respect.”
John Lavery, head basketball coach at Priestley College and coach of the Cheshire Jets, has been impressed with the team’s progress through the season.
He said every member of the team had contributed to the success and praised Ryan Allen who came into the basketball trials without experience, but helped Priestley win the playoff quarterfinals with only five men.
Picture: The successfull Priestley basketball team.