BASKETBALL Fiji is impressed with the response of trialists during the Fiji under-19 open trials at the FMF Gymnasium in Suva on Saturday.

With Fiji gearing up to hosting its first FIBA U19 Oceania Championship in Suva in December, naming a strong team is priority for the national selectors.

And during the opening trials for the Central Division-based players, Basketball Fiji development officer Catherine Grawich said they were pleased with the response from interested players.

"A lot of players came to the trial especially for the boys and we're pleased with it," she said.

"This is the first trials and next week we'll hold another trials for the western players in Lautoka."

She said players were fit and displayed skillful plays.

"We're excited with the enthusiasm shown by players. We saw some talented and very passionate players.

"The fitness was good and we hope to see more good players in upcoming trials."

A squad of 10 players and three reserves for both the girls and boys teams will be named in September.

The girl's team is coached by Dale Wise while Peni Ratumaiyale is the boy's coach.

The Oceania event will be played on December 1.

 

Source: Fiji Times ONLINE, Emoni Narawa, Monday, July 07, 2014 <http://www.fijitimes.com/story.aspx?id=273675>