Wollongong Hawks players traded hoops with almost 70 basketball-mad kids at their school holiday camp at the Snakepit.
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The camps have been running for more than 30 years, with children aged six to 14 enjoying a full day with their NBL heroes.
The Wollongong Hawks tip off the new NBL season tomorrow week, Friday, October 10, with a home game against Townsville.
Hawks assistant coach Matt Flinn said the camps played an important role for the club.
"The kids just love it and all 12 players here are involved for the full day," Flinn said.
"All our guys engage with the kids, talk with them, play with them and give out tips.
"It's not just about signing autographs. These kids hopefully will become junior Hawks members and bring their parents and friends to the game."
Flinn attended his first camp as a nine-year-old in 1982, when Hawks coach Gordie McLeod was among the club's star players, along with Mike Jones, Jim Slacke and Jim Williams.
"I can remember looking up to those guys the same way the kids of today do. You idolise them," Flinn said.
"If we can get that connection at an early age, then hopefully the kids will grow up wanting to play for the Hawks like I did."
Tickets for the Hawks season opener against Townsville and for all home games at the WIN Entertainment Centre are available through Ticketmaster.
The Hawks have several new players this season, with former league MVP Gary Ervin returning and joined in the backcourt by exciting NBA hopeful Jahii Carson.
Wollongong have four home games in October, and after hosting the Crocodiles, take on Cairns (October 19), then New Zealand (October 26) and NBL champions Perth on October 31.
For ticket information contact 4229 7722.