By Tara Murray
Sunbury Jets pair Jack Innella and Dylan Cheyne shone on the world stage for the Australian Boomerangs at the Virtus Games.
The pair were part of the Boomerangs 3 x 3 and 5 x 5 Boomerangs that won world championships at the games.
The Boomerangs are the men’s national representative team for athletes with an intellectual impairment.
Innella was named the most valuable of the 3 x 3 part of the games and was named in the all-star team for both.
Cheyne was also named in the all-star team for the 5 x 5 teams.
It was a second straight world championship for Innella.
“It feels absolutely amazing — winning two titles at the Virtus Games is an unforgettable experience,” he said.
“I’m incredibly proud and grateful for the opportunity to represent my country and all the preparation that led to this moment.
“The Boomerangs have made history and you can’t top that.”
Innella said it was incredible to be recognised on the world stage and named in the all-star fives.
It was the first time that he played 3 x 3, which he said he found quite easy to adapt to.
“It was something new. I was really looking forward to giving it a go and to win the gold medal and to be named MVP was a huge achievement and I am really looking forward to playing in this format again.
The pace was something I really thrived in.
“It was an incredible feeling to be recognised on the world stage and named in the all-star five.
“To know our performances stood out among some of the best in the world is really special — it’s a moment we’ll never forget.”
Innella said the Boomerangs are a tight knit group and it shows on the court.
Cheyne, who is part of the Jets championship side, said it was a really good experience.
“Claiming two titles at the Virtus world championships is an amazing experience that I got to share with not only great basketballers but some great mates and support staff as well who made this all possible,” he said.
“I am extremely proud to have worn the green and gold on the world stage.”
Cheyne said he felt that his hard work had been recognised with receiving all-star five recognition.
“It was an honour to stand there with two other team mates as we were acknowledged for our hard work.”
Cheyne said going between the two formats was a little different but glad 3×3 was first as it’s a more physical and demanding format to play.
Cheyne said it was great to win the two gold medals and achieve all-star five alongside Innella.
He is now also focused on his Sunbury season.
“Next for me is finishing off the season at Sunbury Jets Big V with the champ men’s team,” he said.
“Then work on try outs for the State team to represent Vic at the Ivor Burge tournament in Ballarat early next year.”
