As anticipation builds for the upcoming VJBL 2023/24 Season, the Frankston Blues proudly introduce a stellar lineup of coaches who are set to guide the future of basketball talent in the region. With a wealth of experience, passion, and expertise, these coaches promise to lead their teams to new heights, fostering growth, development, and success for the young athletes they will mentor.
Under 16 Boys’ Coaching Line-Up
Leading the charge for the Under 16 Team 1 is none other than Clark James. His illustrious playing career as a starting point guard for the USA Junior Olympic team, a California all-state player, CIF High-school Player of the Year, and NCAA Championships participant and Captain of Pepperdine University, speaks volumes about his basketball prowess. Clark’s coaching background, which includes serving as a skills coach for Haileybury College and the Sandringham Sabres and his previous role as Assistant Coach to the Frankston Blues 16.1 Girls, makes him the perfect leader for this talented team. He will be ably assisted by Lachlan Barker, fresh from his NBL season with the Tasmania JackJumpers.
Bryce Philippe will continue his outstanding work with the 2010-born boys as the Under 16 Team 3 Head Coach. Bryce brings valuable insight and dedication to the role with experience assisting the 2010-born team and a previous season with the Under 16.1 in the 2021/22 season. Bryce will be assisted by NBL1 forward Vincent Monaghan.
These exceptional coaches will be supported by other familiar faces including Phil Wright, Travis Hunt, Brett Andersen and David Andersen.
Under 18 Boys’ Coaching Line-Up
Lucas Barker, the NBL1 Captain of the Frankston Blues, will take on the role of Under 18 Team 1 Coach. Lucas’s playing achievements, including recently winning the NBL1 South Golden Hands Awards, highlight his impressive basketball career. His experience and professionalism will undoubtedly benefit the team as they strive for success. Assisting him will be Jay Broadhurst, adding further depth to the coaching staff.
Frankston Blues’ Head of Coaching, Scott Christiansen, steps into the role of Under 18 Team 2 Coach. With Tony Smyth returning to assist him, this coaching duo promises to bring their expertise and passion to the court, nurturing the talents of their young athletes.
Under 20 Mens’ Coach
The Under 20 Mens team will be under the guidance of Paul Groat, who served as the 2022/23 Under 18s Head Coach. His experience and leadership will help these young players continue their development and prepare for the next level of competition.
As the Frankston Blues prepare for the VJBL 2023/24 Season, the organization is confident that these exceptional coaches will inspire, educate, and lead their respective teams to greatness.
Registrations for tryouts are now open. Please click the links before or visit our Junior Blues Try-Outs Landing Page
- Frankston Blues New Player Try Outs: For players that have never played VJBL basketball. (Boys – 29th August, Girls – 27th September)
- Frankston Blues Returning & Transferring Player Try Outs: For players that have either played for Frankston Blues or another VJBL club.
- Basketball Victoria Permission to Train Form: Players who are currently playing for or have previously played in a VJBL competition and wish to obtain ‘Permission to train’ (PTT) at another association must complete and submit the correct form before trying out with a new association.