Michael Yoong Commits to 2021 High performance Program
Rounding out the Sydney Uni Basketball High Performance Program recruiting class of 2021 is NSW guard Michael Yoong.
Yoong joins Sydney Uni Basketball having excelled both on and off the court in recent years, representing the likes of NSW Metro, Knox Grammar and Northern Suburbs Basketball Association.
Playing for NSW, Yoong won bronze at the U18 Australian Basketball Championships in Townsville, and was recently selected in the U20 NSW squad set to play at the 2021 Australian Basketball Championships.
Locally, Yoong was a member of Knox Grammar’s PEAK program, designed to support and assist high performing student-athletes considering a career in elite sport to achieve excellence in their chosen sport, while achieving their best academically.
After completing his HSC late last year, Yoong also spent time training with the Illawarra Hawks (NBL) during preseason, making a lasting impression on the Hawks’ experienced coaching staff.
On top of school commitments, Yoong has also represented the Northern Suburbs Basketball Association, winning the 2020 Waratah Youth 2 Men’s Championship on the back of a 19-point game in the grand final (alongside current High Performance Program member Robbie Moore).
Following an outstanding academic year, Yoong will begin studying a Bachelor of Commerce & Advanced Studies at Sydney University in 2021.
"I'm grateful to be able to represent and compete for Sydney University in the UBL, as well as work with both the team and highly professional staff,'“ said Yoong.
“I'm thrilled and can't wait to be playing at such a high level whilst being able to get a great education at a place like Sydney University."
Sydney Uni Basketball High Performance Program Head Coach Tom Garlepp was delighted to see Yoong join the program in its first year.
“Mikey brings a selflessness to our program that can’t be understated. He’s a true point guard that values the success of the team and the people around him at a premium,” said Garlepp.
“Having Mikey represent The University of Sydney is a big win for the High Performance Program, and I am looking forward to being able to work with him this year.”
Yoong rounds out an exciting offseason of recruiting, focused on providing a number a talented NSW prospects with the opportunity to balance their basketball development and academic pursuits locally.
The Sydney Uni Basketball High Performance Program is designed to provide additional opportunities (on top of traditional club and state/national program commitments) to squad members, ensuring their studies and future are can be adequately supported while they continue to develop on the court. By providing opportunities to represent Sydney University in competitions such as the UBL, squad members will also benefit from the chance to play against talented basketballers across the country, gaining additional exposure in Australia’s basketball landscape. Learn more about the High Performance Program here.
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