Winitana holding court at kids' camp

A former Tall Black, Olympian, and New Zealand Breaker will be running his expert eye over any Wanganui youngsters that have hoop dreams next week.

Whanganui HoopClub has announced the "Paora Winitana and Friends" holiday basketball camp, which Winitana will be the head coach.

"Paora is a very experienced and highly regarded player and has achieved many successes in the game at the highest level nationally and internationally," said spokesman Paul Berridge.

"This is a man with great knowledge, experience and passion for basketball and a massive opportunity for all of our youth."

Debuting in 1996, shooting guard Winitana played nationally in the NBL across 16 years, winning the title in 2006 with the Hawke's Bay Hawks and being named league MVP back-to-back in 2006-7.

He represented New Zealand from 1999 to 2008, attending World Championships and the Olympics, while being part of the silver-medal winning 2006 Commonwealth Games team.

Winitana played in the Australian NBL with the Breakers and the Adelaide 36ers.

Berridge said the school holiday camp is open to all basketball players, not just HoopClub members.

Entry is $40 but there are discounts for multiple family members.

Tuesday, July 23, is for juniors aged 5-12 years old, while Thursday, July 24, is for Seniors 13-18 years.

Doors open at 8.30am on both days at the Wanganui Community Sports Centre, with camp starting at 9am and finishing at 4pm.

Children will need to bring lunch, water bottle, a change of warm clothes and can bring their own basketball.

Email whanganuihoopclub@outlook.com for a registration form or Berridge on 021 265 8536.