City of Edinburgh Basketball Club to play last game at Portobello High

The club has become one of Scotland’s biggest and most successful, with a playing membership of over 300 and having celebrated over 120 national and local titles.

It boasts among its alumni Rose Anderson, who became the first Scot to play for Great Britain at an Olympic Games when she suited up for London 2012.

The club will relocate to the new Portobello High School on completion.

Amelia Morgan, chair of the City of Edinburgh Basketball Club, said: “Portobello High School has been synonymous with City of Edinburgh Basketball for over two decades; it’s been our home and has seen thousands of players through its doors in that time.

“Our club is committed to creating playing opportunities for all and offering participation and competition in all local, regional and national league structures. We offer a fun, rewarding experience for our membership, at developing the sporting and leadership talents of our young people.”

Today’s tournament will see more than 60 players from past and present come together, including former Scotland  captain Laurie Costello, as well his father Danny, who coached the club’s men’s side to nine Scottish League titles in ten years from 2003.

A host of others such as Emma Findlay, Sean Mitchell and Annie Rowan will line-up alongside some of the new generation, such as this year’s Scotland under-18 captain Kyle Jimenez.

Former Portobello Head of PE Toni Szifris will also be coaching, alongside former and current school teachers and club stalwarts Brian Findlay, Liz Simpson and Elaine Inkster, the current head of PE and coach of one of the club’s female teams.

Former pupil Rose Anderson, who is now coaching at college level in Oklahoma, has sent a video message of support ahead of the celebrations.

She said: “I have so many great memories of the current games hall at Porty High, it’s where I first started playing, where I spent hour after hour practising, allowing me to reach my dream of playing professionally and representing Team GB at the Olympic Games in 2012.

“I owe so much to teachers and coaches at the school and club and to volunteers behind the scenes. I know the club is excited about moving to the new school and it’s great the community is getting a school fit for the 21st century.

“Sport has given me so many things, the opportunity to travel and see the world, to meet people from all different countries and cultures, and to make new friendships that will last a lifetime. I’m extremely proud to say I played at Porty.”