By Travis Davidson

The ACT is being represented at the 4th INAS Global Games taking place in Ecuador, with local’s Justin Koenig being selected to represent the Australian Boomerangs, along with Brittany Anderson and Taylor Anderson who have been selected to for the Australian Pearls.

The Australian Boomerangs and the Australian Pearls are the Australian National men’s and women’s basketball team’s for players with an intellectual disability (PWID).

Through Basketball Australia and the Australian Sports & Recreation Association for People with an Intellectual Disability (AUSRAPID) the teams are affiliated with INAS. INAS is the International Federation for sport for athletes with an intellectual disability that promotes inclusion through sport, and is a full member of the International Paralympic Committee representing intellectual disability.

Justin Koenig plays in Basketball ACT’s mainstream men’s competition at the Tuggeranong Indoor Sports Stadium on Monday night’s, and has represented the ACT in the Ivor Burge Championship.

Basketball ACT caught up with Justin Koenig before he left for Ecuador.

BACT: Congratulations on your selection for the Australian Boomerangs. What does it mean for you to represent Australia?

JK: “…it’s the best! I am really excited to do my best and work hard.”

BACT: And do you know which position are you going to play in Ecuador? Has the coach spoken to you about your role?

JK: “Whatever the coach wants. I will be doing a lot of posting…”

BACT: What number are you going to wear?

JK: 11 (eleven)

BACT: Are we going to see you representing Australia at the 5th INAS Global Games in Brisbane in 2019?

JK: “Yes, I hope so”

BACT: What advice do you have for any up and coming athletes aspiring to represent the Boomerangs or Pearls?

JK: “…get involved and enjoy; work hard.”

Brisbane, Australia has been selected as the host city for the 5th INAS Global Games in 2019.

The 4th INAS Global Games take place in Ecuador, commencing 21 September until 27 September 2015.

Basketball ACT wishes the Australian Boomerangs and the Australian Pearls all the best in Ecuador.