And from table tennis, we turn now to basketball, where a group of Belizean athletes at the semi-pro level is making an attempt to travel to the US for a tournament called the 2021 Las Vegas Draft Day Combines.
They will be up against tough opponents who are trying to catch the eye of pro scouts and play professionally in either the NBA or the professional leagues in Europe.
But to attend, the team of 12 Belizeans needs to raise $12,000 for their travel expenses. This morning, one of the coaches organizing the trip stopped by to discuss their fundraising efforts:
Rodvell Gladden - Coach
"We are trying to organize a team to take to the Las Vegas Draft Combine, hosted by Baseline Sports. At the moment, we have 12 guys. So, the 12 guys are going to represent Belize abroad."
"The guys are going to get opportunities from coaches around the world, from all over Europe, and also the G League, and the NBA scouts are going to be there. So, these guys will be playing for 2 days, from 9 until 2 o'clock in the evening, and they will be evaluated by coaches from all parts of the world."
"In Belize, we have the elite level, and these are the type of guys who I am taking, but the guys would have to be over that elite level that they have in Belize to be evaluated and to even be taken seriously by these coaches."
Reporter
"What will it cost, and what are you all doing to try to meet that expense?"
Rodvell Gladden
"At this moment, we are planning a barbecue dinner that is going to be on the 17th, and we're also asking others out there to donate. So, they could either donate to us directly. My number is 615-7200, or email me at guanatail19@gmail.com."
"It's very exciting because it's the first time in Belize. It has never happened before. So, the guys are very excited about it."
"And how this opportunity is here for our guys, and I am asking the public to help out."
If they can fundraise the travel costs, the team will leave on August 11th and return on August 14th. If you would like to support, you can reach Coach Gladden at 615-7200.
