Whangarei basketballers head to Australia

Three Whangarei girls have shot their way into national basketball development teams competing in Australia this week.

Two of the girls, TeAhureinga Read and Zhane Shortland, both 13, have been selected in the under-15 team while Leylanni Cameron is part of the under-17 team.

The 13-year-olds are excited to have the opportunity to play against some of Australia's best state teams at the Pacific Postland tournament in Port Macquarie, New South Wales.

Each girl and their families have had to come up with the $3000 needed to attend the tournament.

TeAhureinga's mother, Arvay Armstrong-Read, said it was sad none of her family could be there to support them but recognises the opportunity is much greater than the cost.

"It is a little bit disappointing that we can't go and support her but we know she's with very professional coaches who will look after her.

"We're just happy she's getting the chance to play over there."

Armstrong-Read said the girls would not be going without the support of local residents and business owners who had contributed towards the travel costs.

The girls have dreams of making it into New Zealand's top under-15 team, the Korus. With two years up their sleeve, they have every chance of making that dream a reality.

Both girls have been mentored for the past two years by Northland basketball legend Mata Cameron who said the girls were "a coach's dream".

"They're really committed players whereas some players will come and go. I took them to my under-17 team camp on the weekend and, to be honest, I wish I had them in my team."

Cameron said the girls had supportive families who she credits for their positive attitudes towards the intensive training needed.

Cameron's granddaughter, Leylanni, was a late addition to the under-17 team after some players withdrew due to funding restrictions.

She said the tournament would provide Leylanni with an opportunity to prove her value in the New Zealand team as she looked to progress her basketball career.