Posted on 21 April, 2021

This year the South East Melbourne Phoenix is proudly supporting the first ever ‘Heartland Tournament’ for domestic teams across the South East on Melbourne Cup weekend.

The tournament will be run by the Kilsyth, Knox and Frankston basketball associations and give domestic clubs across the South East the opportunity to play like their Heartland Heroes in a tournament style weekend.

There will be different age groups and grades, allowing players of all abilities to get involved and enjoy the unique experience of travelling together, spending time with friends and competing with teams across the Heartland.

Phoenix CEO Tommy Greer says the club didn’t hesitate to throw their support behind the exciting idea.

“A significant section of our supporters young and old are involved in domestic teams whether playing or helping out across South East Melbourne, so it was an easy decision to get behind the inaugural Heartland Tournament,” he said.

“A lot of kids don’t get the opportunity to play in fun tournament-style competitions, which we believe is a great way to bring the community together and form stronger bonds within domestic clubs.

“We look forward to being a visible presence at the event and inspiring the next generation of Phoenix stars in what we see as a long-term addition to the Heartland basketball calendar.”

The tournament will have a carnival atmosphere with a range of activities at each of the host venues to keep everyone entertained whether playing or not.

Registrations will be live soon, but the tournament is now taking expressions of interest here:

Heartland Tournament Expression of Interest

Any team who registers their interest will go into the draw to win tickets for the entire squad at an upcoming Phoenix home game.

What the host associations said about the launch of the inaugural Heartland Tournament:

KILSYTH

“Many players – particularly those who don’t play representative basketball – don’t get the chance to play in a tournament environment or against kids outside of their association, so this is a great opportunity for them.

“Having the Phoenix invested in this tournament is fantastic and having them as the major sponsor adds an extra element. The presence of an NBL team coupled with the opportunity for players to test themselves against the rest of the ‘Heartland’ may well inspire a crop of future stars.”

KNOX:

“Knox Basketball is extremely excited and also very proud to see the 2021 Heartland Domestic Tournament get off the ground and take place, as this was an initiative led by Knox and has been two years in the making.

“As soon as we met with Tommy Greer, CEO of Phoenix NBL, they were immediately supportive rhe concept. The Phoenix and the NBL allowed us to use the name of “Heartland”.  They have been tremendous supporters of this tournament and are not only an official partner but also major sponsors, all in one.

“This tournament will be like no other, we will have carnival rides and real festival feel at each venue providing families and siblings who aren’t playing games to also enjoy this weekend.”

FRANKSTON:

“We are honoured to be included in this tournament with Knox and Kilsyth. It’s also great having the Phoenix as major supporters of the tournament. We cannot wait to get involved and offer something very special for our domestic teams.”