Thunder Basketball Academy
St Mary’s High School, in partnership with Russell Hoops Basketball, provides a unique opportunity for post 16 students to combine academic study with an elite basketball coaching programme. Students follow a personalised programme of academic study whilst receiving specialist basketball coaching. This means that Academy players can pursue basketball to the highest possible level whilst preparing for their future careers.
The programme is overseen by the Academy Director of Basketball alongside a professional basketball coach.
Post 16 students are coached to develop their individual basketball skills, how to apply these skills to produce elite team performance, understand how to train effectively and learn about nutrition to support high level athletic performance. Post 16 Academy students are expected to coach and mentor younger students as part of their commitment to the academy.
Students can access elite level coaching and specialist expertise in international standard facilities. They develop all aspects of their performance throughout the one or two year programme, including refinement of individual technique, strength and conditioning development and other aspects such as sports nutrition, psychology and sports related career progression.
Post 16 Academy students are expected to coach and mentor younger students as part of their commitment to the Academy. Post 16 students have to balance their academic studies with their Academy skills training and can only remain part of the Academy programme if they study well and uphold the high standards expected of them.
Students in Years 7 to 11 access parts of Academy programmes to support their aspirations and career pathways as well as provide challenge and extension activities.
