WHO WE ARE
A Community Built on Culture, Opportunity, and Growth
At Crusaders Basketball, our strength comes from the people who make up our club.
We are a vibrant, inclusive community, all united by a love of the game and a shared commitment to supporting young athletes. Our club is proudly rooted in the Redlands, bringing together players, families, and volunteers who live, work, and go to school in the local area, creating a true sense of connection and belonging.
Our players are at the heart of everything we do.
They come from diverse backgrounds, bring different skills and experiences, and share a passion for basketball and personal growth. Our coaches and managers are dedicated mentors, guiding players on and off the court while fostering teamwork, resilience, and confidence. Behind the scenes, our committee members work tirelessly to ensure the club runs smoothly, creating a safe, structured, and welcoming environment for all.
Together, we celebrate achievements, encourage development, and build strong connections that extend beyond basketball. Our community thrives on the contributions of everyone involved, players, families, coaches, managers, and committee members - making Crusaders Basketball a place where every individual belongs, grows, and is inspired to reach their full potential, both on and off the court.
OUR STORY
Crusaders Basketball was founded in 2020 by two local mums, Helen Rameka and Charmain Mellars who saw firsthand the challenges preventing many children from accessing the sport they loved.
The vision was brought to life with other supporting parents, with thanks.
Both raised in the same community in New Zealand and deeply connected to their cultural, coaching, and playing backgrounds, they recognised how powerful sport can be for a young person’s social, mental, spiritual, and physical development. They created Crusaders to ensure that every child, especially those facing barriers, had an opportunity to play, grow, and belong.
Built on experience, cultural values, and a commitment to community, the club has grown over the years into a thriving home for players and families who share our vision.
Crusaders is grounded in the principles of Respect, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Excellence, and these values guide everything we do—on and off the court. Today, Crusaders proudly leads the way within the RedCity Association, known not only for strong basketball development, but for the genuine care, connection, and leadership it instills in every player.
At Crusaders Basketball, we’re more than just a club. We’re a community built on culture, opportunity, and the belief that sport can shape brighter futures.
2025 / 2026