OYT OPENING CEREMONY

Speeches by several basketball dignitaries preceded the official opening by FIBA Secretary Steve Smith and the pledge of fair play by the captains of the Australian women and Guam men’s teams. Referee Jubilee Kuartei gave the pledge on behalf of the officials.

In his address, FIBA President, Mr Bob Elphinston again highlighted the position of Fiji in its women’s game against Australia earlier in the evening and also the similar situation in Spain back in June, and related this to how the Australian Women’s Team was thrashed in their first World Championship appearance some 51 years ago. Now they are the reigning World Champions.

His comment was that we all have to start somewhere and if we work at our development, then all things are possible in the future. He urged the island countries of Oceania to work at their development programs to improve the standard of basketball.

The opening ceremony was followed by a cultural show of local dancers that entertained the crowd with their graceful movements.

Last Modified on 01/10/2008 11:00

Comments

Comment Guidelines: The SportsTG Network is made up of players, families and passionate sports followers like you who have a strong opinion about sport. That's great - we want you to have your say and share your thoughts with the world. However, we have a few rules that you must follow to keep it fun for all. Please don't be rude, abusive, swear or vilify others. Apart from some pretty serious sport sanctions, we also can ban you and report you if things get out of hand. So play fair and have fun, and thanks for your contribution.