Specialised Basketball Program

Since its establishment in 2006, our Specialised Basketball Program has enabled participating students to pursue excellence in the sport. It extends beyond the traditional scope of sports education, fostering the development of physical abilities, fitness, teamwork and interpersonal skills, as well as an understanding of sports officiating and coaching.

Each year, our Specialised Basketball Program students represent the College in School Sport WA (SSWA) and Associated and Catholic Colleges (ACC) competitions. Participating students are encouraged to nominate for Western Australian Basketball League (WABL) programs at their nominated association. Players continued development through club and association basketball competitions is also expected.

For more information, please contact our Specialised Basketball Co-ordinator or Director of Sport.

Applications for our Specialised Basketball Program and Scholarship are closed.

Selection Criteria

While the Specialised Basketball Program caters for students enrolled at St Norbert College, the College welcomes applicants from students at other schools. Selection is based on both academic and physical skill levels, with school reports and a reference from a club basketball coach required.

Successful applicants will be required to meet the following expectations:

  • Maintain and excellent attendance and behaviour record
  • Display a positive attitude towards the College ethos
  • Participate consistently and to the best of their ability whilst in the program
  • Maintain a positive attitude towards their academic studies
  • Participate in College sporting activities other than basketball
Please note that students entering Year 9 and above are still welcome to apply; however, trial opportunities will be offered by invitation only, based on playing ability and available vacancies within the program.

Fees and Costs

Students are required to wear the following for all training sessions or classes:

  • Canons Playing Singlet ($40)
  • Canons Playing Shorts ($40)
  • Canons Reversible Singlet ($27)
  • White College Sports Socks ($10)

These are ordered through the Uniform Shop. An order form will be sent out with acceptance into the Specialised Basketball Program.

Accreditation courses:

  • Year 8 BWA Refereeing Course ($40) (subject to change)
  • Year 10 Wheelchair Basketball Course ($50) (subject to change)

For more information about the Blessed Hugh of Fosse Basketball Scholarship, visit Scholarships.

Country Applicants

Accommodation for country students is available nearby at the Rotary Residential College, Victoria Park. A private school bus passes the hostel each day to provide transport to and from the College.

St Norbert College offers a number of Scholarships and State Government grants are available for boarding.

Country students who unable to attend on the trial date, please contact our Specialised Basketball Co-ordinator or Director of Sport.

Program Structure

Year 7

Students receive two hours of training each week conducted before and after school. Students will develop the fundamental skills, understand basic team play, begin developing fitness to enhance their participation in basketball and provide the foundation for their ongoing development. Course components include knowledge on injury awareness and prevention. Students will participate in a Sports Taping Course facilitated by Sports Medicine Australia outlining common injuries in the sport and the best course for support and prevention.

Year 8

Students select the subject Specialised Basketball as an elective in both Semester One and Two. They receive four hours instruction per week during class time, with fundamental skills, techniques and tactics the focus. Students will participate in a Level ‘O’ Score Bench Course and Level ‘O’ Refereeing Course.

Year 9

Students select the subject Specialised Basketball as an elective in both Semester One and Two. They receive two hours instruction per week during class time. Skill, technique, teamwork extension, fitness and strength training introduction are the focus. Knowledge components include injury awareness and prevention. Students will participate in a Sports Taping Course facilitated by Sports Medicine Australia outlining common injuries in the sport and the best course for support and prevention.

Year 10

Students select the subject Specialised Basketball as an elective in both Semester One and Two. They receive four hours instruction per week during class time. Further development of skill, technique, teamwork, fitness and strength training will occur. Students are taught the foundations of biomechanics. This is an excellent introduction to Year 11 and 12 Physical Education. Students also receive Accreditation in Coaching by the Australian Sports Commission.

Years 11 and 12

Students can enrol in Certificate III Sport & Recreation Basketball as part of the Program. This course is designed to provide Specialised Basketball students the opportunity to train and learn about basketball fundamentals and strategies, fitness and recovery, coaching skills and training methods. In addition, students have the opportunity to co-ordinate events for the College and external providers.

Staff

Director of Sport: Sam Mancini

With over 10 years of experience coaching high school basketball, Sam brings a deep passion for developing student-athletes and a wealth of knowledge in the sport. As a former member of the St. Norbert College Specialist Basketball Program for five years, Sam understands the importance of balancing athletic achievement with academic excellence. Committed to guiding students toward success in both their athletic and academic pursuits, Sam emphasizes discipline, teamwork, and resilience, ensuring every athlete remains focused on reaching their full potential.

 

Specialised Basketball Program Co-ordinator: Raya Thompson

Playing experience:

  • 100+ SBL and NBL1 West games (Southwest Slammers and Perth Redbacks)
  • U/16, U/18 and U/20 Western Australia State Basketball Team (Leadership group – 2015- 2017)
  • U/12 – U/18 Western Australia Basketball League

Coaching experience:

  • St Norbert College Specialised Basketball Program Co-ordinator 2024
  • U/18 girls WABL Assistant Coach 2023
  • U/16 girls WABL Assistant Coach 2018
  • U/14 girls WABL Assistant Coach 2017
  • Redhage Basketball Coach 2020-2023

Development Officer: Noah Valentine

Playing experience:

  • U/12 – U/20 Western Australian Basketball League (Willetton Tigers / Cockburn Cougars)
  • Willetton Senior High School Specialist Basketball Program
  • U/12 State School Boys Western Australia (Bronze Medal)
  • U/14, U/15 State Southern Cross Challenge
  • Aussie Prospects Touring Team, Invitational
  • x2 U/16 Western Australian Metro State Basketball Team / Squad Member (Vice Captain – 2019)
  • x2 U/18 Western Australian Metro State Basketball Team (Squad member)
  • Western Australian Basketball League Championship Div / Development League (Willetton Tigers – present)
  • NBL1 Roster / Squad Member (Willetton Tigers – present)

Coaching experience:

  • St Norbert College Basketball Development Officer (2025 -)
  • Aussie Hoops Junior Basketball U/12’s.
  • U/14 WABL Head Coach (2024-2025)
  • U/16 WABL Head Coach (2023-2024)
  • U/18 WABL Assistant Coach (2025-2026)
  • Redhage Basketball Coach (2022-2025)
  • Basketball WA Pathways Coach 2025 Campaign
  • U/15 Metro / Country SCC Assistant – Pathways Coach
  • Head Coach U15’s SCC Performance Carnival
Search Off Canvas