United Multicultural Stories: Red Roo Basketball

With so much basketball talent looking to hit the court at the junior level around Melbourne, it’s paramount that we have inclusive environments where people can feel comfortable developing.

That is exactly what the team at Red Roo Sports have been doing for the past decade, working closely with the South Sudanese community to help produce great players.

Speaking to Head Coach Tot Jok, he explained what the program’s purpose is, as well as how creating an inclusive environment has helped players thrive.

“I feel like we kind of allow kids to be more expressive of their ability, rather than having to be so x’s and o’s,” Jok said.

“Pretty much you’ll come down here and the expectation is you’ll play to the best of your ability."

Tot Jok

“Sometimes you can go to other clubs, and it’s not like you feel like you don’t belong, but there’s not that many people you can relate to.

“Kids can come here and be surrounded by other South Sudanese kids, so they feel comfortable, and when you’re playing basketball, the more comfortable you are in your environment, the better you’re going to play.

“We’re not just mucking around here, you’re going to get better, and you’re going to get better with people you’re comfortable with.”

Through the program, Red Roo, along with their training facility, Hoops 24/7 in Dandenong South, have helped close to 50 players sign scholarships to play basketball at the collegiate level in America.

James Kerr, who owns both Hoops 24/7 and Red Roo, said he is passionate about helping young athletes reach their potential both on and off the court.

“There’s a lot of great talent out there…. We’ve put nearly 50 scholarships through Hoops 24/7 and Red Roo. 

“What we want kids to understand is we want student athletes, we want kids to be good in the classroom and on the court. Our philosophy is excellence over time with discipline equals success.”

Melbourne United is set to celebrate organisations like Red Roo on Sunday during The Multicultural Game.

Featuring a free Multicultural Festival from 12pm outside the arena, the entire day will be an awesome showcase of Melbourne’s diversity.

Tickets to the game are available here.