Nyngan’s youth have been given an opportunity to improve skills that are fundamental to basketball, when professional player Kenny Brunner visited the town.
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Living in the rough areas of Los Angeles and growing up without mentors inspired Mr Brunner to “create opportunities” for local children.
“I come from a background where I didn't have my parents and I didn't have too many of those types of mentors in my life, so it’s something I felt I needed to do in order to, not only give back to the kids, but also do something that makes me feel good inside,” Mr Brunner said.
The children learned the basics of footwork and ball skills and gained the value of perseverance and team work all while having fun.
Mr Brunner said he enjoyed his time in Nyngan, which he describes as a “therapeutic” change from working in the city.
“These kids appreciate it a lot more, because they don’t get to have me as much as the other kids that get a chance to see me constantly," he said.
According to Mr Brunner, Nyngan boasts a number of aspiring athletes and he hopes in the future he can tour local towns to build basketball opportunities for the next generation of players.
“Most small country towns boast footy ... basketball is not a primary sport, so I’m trying for the ones that do love it create a pathway so they have that opportunity to go to the next level if they choose to or at least to chase those dreams.”
“There's so many opportunities in that area to get basketball up and going ... so I plan on being back there.”
Mr Brunner thanked the Community Hub’s Katie White for organising the school holiday event, and praised her for her work within the community.
“I think Katie’s done a really fantastic job of building the centre, and the programs there. I'm definitely a fan of this small country town, I've enjoyed it each time I’ve been here.”
“Thank you to all the people that supported me, thanks to all the kids, thanks to Red Cross, Katie, Tanya, John. A big shout out to Peter Chapman he was the guy who took me around this last visit, he was great. I’m very appreciative of the opportunity and I look forward to seeing everybody again.”