Rebekah Wilson, 16, and Maddy Clyne, 15, rarely enjoyed a sleep-in over the Christmas break, but it wasn’t in vain. 

The pair spent 28 days in America in Texas and Chicago playing basketball as part of the Southern Sports Academy. 

During their time in the states the girls played in two tournaments, winning the second one that was held in Pilot Point in Texas. 

“It was a really great experience,” Maddy said. 

“We learned so much and all of the people were so friendly.

“The games were played at high schools, so the atmosphere was really exciting and big.”

The duo had little time to rest on their return to Australia after spending both Christmas and the New Year in the states. 

Rebekah recently spent a week at the under 17s Country Development Program in Port Macquarie, while Maddy also trained for a week in Albury as part of the under 18s Country Tour Team. 

“We played a lot of basketball, but it was good because it was a chance to work on skills,” Rebekah said. 

“It was an opportunity to meet all of the different players and coaches. 

“I got a lot out of it.

“It was good because we got to get our names out there.

“The coaches were good … I learned so many new skills so it was worth it.”

For Maddy, there was also a lot of time spent on the court. 

At both camps the pair played against representatives from across the country, as well as New Zealand. 

“A lot of the girls (in the NSW team) have been playing together for a long time, so it was good to sort of slot in and see where we matched up,” Maddy said. 

“One of the coaches I had was a former WNBL (Women’s National Basketball League) player, so that was pretty exciting to learn from her. 

“There were a lot of strong players there, but it was good. 

“I got to see where I was compared to them.”

The pair will continue to train in Leeton, but already have various commitments coming up this year. 

They will both be involved in the Western Junior League competition where they will represent Leeton.