Players
First
Basketball
Join us these holidays for high-impact small group skill sessions designed to fast-track development in a focused, competitive environment. Learn from master coaches with diverse basketball backgrounds and elite experience.
We’re offering sessions across all levels:
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U12 Foundation – For players with domestic and rep experience
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Foundation Plus – For advanced U12 players ready for the next challenge
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U14 Next Level & Next Level Plus – Game-focused sessions building skill, IQ, and intensity
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U16 Performance – Advanced training for committed rep players
Each session is:
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Capped at 8 players
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Staffed by 2–3 expert coaches to ensure personal attention
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Run in a professional environment that values growth, effort, and learning.
Meet the team:
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Coach Mike Torres – Founder of Players First and veteran skills coach
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Master Coach William – Player development specialist
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Coach BB – Altona Gators NBL1 Import and mentor
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Coach Ella – National player for Fiji and emerging youth leader
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My Story
Mike Torres
Founder & Head Coach
Experience:
BigV Youth League Head Coach
Coburg 2021
Diamond Valley 2022 & 2023
Basketball Victoria State Program
SDP Hub Lead 2018-2021
Vic Metro Assistant Coach 2020-2022
Born and raised in the vibrant yet challenging neighborhood of Washington Heights, New York, I grew up navigating the pressures of peer influence, gang violence, and drugs. Basketball became my refuge—a passion that not only saved my life but also taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, discipline, and teamwork.
In 2017, I founded Players First Basketball to create the kind of environment I wish I’d had growing up. Our mission is to provide athletes of all levels with professional coaching, skill development, and—most importantly—the mentorship and support needed to excel both on and off the court. At Players First Basketball, we strive to nurture a love for the game while equipping players with the tools to thrive in sports and in life.
Our Story
Players First Basketball began as a small training session on Sunday nights with just 8 players. What started as a passion project quickly grew into a program recognized for delivering some of the best basketball knowledge and skills training available.
Nearly eight years later, Players First Basketball has grown to train over 500 athletes. Our program’s success speaks for itself:
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4 players have gone directly to U.S. universities.
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7 players have completed high school in the U.S.
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A U.S. tour is scheduled for April 2024.
At Players First, our approach is simple but effective:
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Focus on fundamentals and game-ready skills.
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Simplify the game and teach players the why behind every move and decision.
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Emphasize life skills that go beyond the court.
Our greatest impact comes from our ability to connect with young athletes, helping them grow both as players and individuals. At Players First Basketball, it’s not just about the game – it’s about empowering kids to succeed in life.
