Posted on 11 February, 2008

Thirteen Australian basketball players absorbed the “American flirting and attention” as though they were celebrities, and they were, at least to the locals.

“I think the girls were most impressed with their accents,” said athletic director Monroe Joyner. “I’m sure a few of them would be considered good looking, but mostly l think the girls just wanted to hear them talk.”

The tall, tan, bleach haired Australians were easy to spot walking the hallways Jan. 3 after the basketball game Wednesday night. As part of an Australian traveling team, Kilsyth toured the United States making their third stop (after Alaska and Seattle) in Bowling Green to play the Purples.

Unfortunately for Kilsyth, the trip to Bowling Green, Kentucky resulted in a 88-69  defeat.

Although half the team was benched due to “excessive partying in Seattle,” Kilsyth seemed unfazed by the loss.

“The game was exciting even though we lost,” said Kilsyth guard Shawn Creed. “The crowd was bigger and louder.” He said that most surprising thing was having their names announced, and seeing the cheerleaders.

After the game, many of the Australians stayed at various teachers’ and basketball players’

houses.

“I didn’t know until the day before that they were going to stay at my house,” said junior Jeb Richardson. “But I liked it; they were a lot of fun.” He said they also didn’t seem bitter about the loss. “I think they were more excited about coming to America than actually playing basketball,” he said.

The next day, the Aussies joined the Purples at school, experiencing life at BGHS.

“Ah it’s wicked,” said Australian guard Scottie Marsh, as he pulled up his shirt to show a girls’

signature on his stomach.

“Yeah, it’s been fun and interesting meeting new mates,” said Creed.

After playing Central Thursday night, many of the Australians hung out with BGHS seniors to enjoy their last night in Bowling Green.

“We eventually ended up driving around; they actually liked riding in a car because they can’t drive until they’re 18,” said senior Charlotte Hunt. “Then we went to Wal-Mart and bought a paintball gun because those are illegal to buy in Australia.”

The next day, the Aussies traveled to Barren County to play the Trojans Jan. 4 before stopping in Los Angeles then returning home. Overall the experience appeared to be rewarding for both parties.

“It introduced our kids to another culture,” said Joyner. “It was interesting to ask questions and learn about the Australian culture.”

The feeling was mutual. “It was great meeting new people. We really enjoyed ourselves in Kentucky. Thanks mate!” said Creed.