At the start of the 2024/25 basketball season, Oakland Air Control Ltd was proud to sponsor a brand-new kit for the Stourport Spartans U14s, who compete in the Midlands Conference of the Basketball England National League.
The Stourport Spartans are a thriving local club with over 200 players across various age groups, and their U14s team is a shining example of how sport can develop both skill and character.
U14s Coach, Matt Coles, admitted he had a challenge on his hands with a group of quiet, shy lads who barely spoke. But that all began to change after the first few wins of the season. Spirits were high until a tough away fixture against West Brom, known for their passionate crowd and ever-present drums. The Spartans suffered their first defeat but only by 4 points.
Fuelled by determination, the team bounced back with a string of strong performances. Then came the highly anticipated home return game against West Brom. With the Stourport drums echoing through the gym, the boys played like never before delivering an electrifying performance and winning by an incredible 50 points. Coach Coles called it the best complete team effort he'd ever seen.
A few more wins followed, and the journey ended on a high with the Spartans being crowned:
🏆 Basketball England National League U14 Midlands I Conference Champions 🏆
Not bad for a group of quiet lads who came together, grew as individuals, and formed a powerful, united team. (Even if they still don’t talk much!)
And, of course they did it all wearing the Oakland kit.