BEFORE THE LISTS DROP: A MESSAGE TO OUR PLAYERS & FAMILIES
To our Chelsea Gulls players, parents and carers,
Firstly, thank you. Thank you for being part of our club and going through the tryout process with us. Thank you to the coaches, volunteers, parents and staff who worked long hours to make it happen. And thank you to our families for your patience while we worked to get this process right.
Squad lists will be released an hour apart to keep the website running smoothly for everyone:
U12s – 9am
U14s – 10am
U16s – 11am
U18s – 12pm
We know team announcements bring mixed emotions. Some of you will be excited and proud, others disappointed or unsure. Every one of those feelings is valid.
Rep basketball is competitive, and placements are never guaranteed. Our coaches consider each player’s development, team balance and plans for the season, along with the direction of the club.
To players not selected: It takes courage to put yourself forward, and it’s okay to feel upset. This result doesn’t define your ability or your future in the game. The work you put in and the skills you built still count.
To players selected: Congratulations! Whether or not you landed the team you hoped for, go in with an open mind. Rep basketball is about teamwork, commitment and making the most of your opportunity. Celebrate, and be kind to those who are hurting.
To parents and carers: The best thing we can do is help kids work through setbacks, not shield them from every one. Acknowledge that it’s hard, and help them see it as part of growing. Whatever the outcome, we hope you’ll keep encouraging their love of the game.
Every player deserves to feel valued and proud of their effort. Thank you for helping us build a club where young people grow as athletes and as people.
Go Gulls 💛💙