Mason Broadhead has expressed his surprise at being named the Illawarra Academy of Sport basketballer of the year.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The award came after a frustrating 12 months for the teenager, a trip to New Zealand with the Australian Country squad just one of multiple events cancelled as a result of coronavirus.
The shooting guard continued training throughout the shutdown, impressing his coaches with his determination to improve his game.
The student has also displayed his commitment away from the court, Broadhead regularly completing the Academy's education modules and embarking on a number of charity endeavours, including food drops at Bulli Uniting Church.
"It was pretty awesome to find out I had been named the Academy's basketballer of the year," Broadhead said. "I wasn't expecting it, so it was awesome.
"It's been a very tough year. I've enjoyed every second I have been able to play. It's been tough not playing that much, but on court has been awesome.
"The Academy has also been awesome throughout this year, they've helped me a lot. They haven't just helped me, but all the athletes who have been in a tough situation."
As with so many sports, the basketball calendar remains in a state of flux.
Uncertainty over the nature of restrictions in the coming months and the likelihood of borders reopening has administrators unable to finalise plans for representative tournaments.
Basketball NSW is planning a series of camps throughout January, the events to fill the void left by the cancellation of multiple competitions, including the Australian Country Junior Basketball Cup.
Broadhead hopes to earn an invite to the gatherings and will continue to work hard to ensure he is ready if any additional tournaments are announced.
"Having the trip to New Zealand cancelled drove me to work even harder and make the next few teams, whenever they are.
"I'm focused on working hard through the off-season, doing my best at those camps and striving to make any teams we do have."