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Some things really are worth waiting for. We can say without hesitation this piece is one of them.

Yes, it took us a few weeks after our Dragons on Tour USA group returned to Melbourne from the United States to get it done, but we finally caught up with seven members of the travelling party and asked them to reflect on their time on the road. This is what they told us:

CONOR MATHEWS, COACH
“The USA tour was an unforgettable experience I’m incredibly grateful to have been a part of. Competing against American high schools was both challenging and exciting, as their fast-paced, physical style of play pushed us to grow individually and as a team. Coaching during the games was especially rewarding – it was inspiring to see the players adapt, embrace the challenges and play with passion and resilience. 

“Outside of the games, the trip was filled with incredible highlights. Attending college basketball games and experiencing the electric atmosphere first-hand was unforgettable. Exploring iconic destinations like Disneyland and Universal Studios added to the excitement, and the team bonding over meals – especially at some amazing BBQ restaurants – made the experience even more special. 

“If you’re considering joining this program when Camberwell Dragons run it again, I couldn’t recommend it more. It’s a life-changing journey that offers growth, connection, and memories that will last a lifetime.”

DANNI FIDGE, COACH
“Our trip was amazing! It was great to coach against different styles of play, which provided new challenges to the players and us as coaches. Going to the colleges and college games was so much fun and such a great experience as well. The whole trip was incredible and worth all the long flights.”

HAMISH CAMPBELL-BURNS, PLAYER
“The USA tour trip was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I was glad to be a part of it with a supportive group of players, coaches and parents I have made friendships with for a lifetime.

“We had some challenging but also exciting moments during our time playing against American high schools as it is a completely different style of game over there.

“There were many amazing memories but some of my highlights included going to Crypto Arena to watch the Lakers vs Spurs and also Disneyland and Universal Studios. If you are considering doing this when Camberwell Dragons run the program again, I highly recommend it, as it was a life-changing experience.

LIAM EDWARDS, PLAYER
“Our basketball trip to the USA was an unforgettable experience, exposing us to a different style of basketball, often slower paced but more physical, that challenged us away from home.

“Despite challenges such as the LA wildfires, the coaches and parents were incredibly organised and supportive, ensuring the trip remained productive and enjoyable. Travelling with a large group of friends added to the adventure, creating lasting memories and making it one of the most rewarding experiences of our lives.”

ISSY TAN, PLAYER
“This trip was absolutely incredible and is definitely a core memory for me and many others. It was packed with so many things for us to do, like visiting colleges, watching NBA games, and, of course, trying all the local fast foods.

“My favourite memories were the game days, where we would drive to a school and each team would play consecutively. Everyone would cheer each other on and it created such a strong bond between the group. Meeting and having a meal with the American team afterwards was also so cool.

“Another highlight was when it snowed in North Carolina and we had snowball fights in the car park. This trip was the most exciting three weeks of my life!!”

CELESTE ROSIER, PLAYER
“The new experiences and the basketball games both watched and played created an experience of a lifetime, and if I had the chance I would go again. The memories created with new friends, long-term friends and friends made with Americans will be remembered for time and time to come.”

SAM ASSI, PARENT
“I had a wonderful experience on the USA tour. The schedule was loaded but we had heaps of fun. Watching the girls and boys play against some real challenging teams highlighted the true fighting spirit of the Camberwell Dragons. Hats off to Conor and the coaches for their tremendous organisational skills and ability to remain calm when needed.”

• If you were a player, coach or family member on the road with the Dragons in the US and would also like to share your experiences with the Camberwell Basketball family, we’d love to hear from you. Send your reflections to Camberwell Basketball Communications Manager Andrew Johnstone at [email protected] or call 0425 791 610.

• The Dragons on Tour USA travelling party was proudly supported by global law firm Hogan Lovells and Richmond-based Stronger Healthcare.

Well done and thank you to all who helped make this an unforgettable trip for our young players, coaches and travelling family members.