The college Merthyr Tydfil offers a basketball programme for 16-19 year olds. The basketball club started as a recreational club, and the college performed well in friendly fixtures and competitions. Since the appointment of Jon Bunyan as coach the programme has rapidly accelerated, and the college are competitive in the Welsh Colleges basketball league, with a runner up position in the first season of competition.
- Collaborative working with Merthyr Mustangs and Pontypridd Panthers
- The team have moved into a competitive league.
- The college has hosted the Welsh International team training camps.
- Former learners accessing prestigious universities.
There are no restrictions on accessing the academy, games and training. Training schedules are fitted around all subjects, so there is no barrier to accessing the football programme. Learners are encouraged to access sports and enrichment opportunities, and effective pastoral support is issued to ensure they remain model student athletes.
All games and training will be hosted at the colleges state f the art sports hall. Student athletes will also have access to our fitness suite facility.
The coaching programme is headed up Jon Bunyan, who has an impressive playing and coaching CV. Jon has 28 international appearances and has also represented Great Britain over 50s team. Jon is the coach and founder of the Pontypridd Panthers, and has completed this role for 13 years. Jon has also held the following posts:
- Under 14s girls Head Coach (2016)
- Under 16s Boys Team Manager (2018) This squad won a FIBA Division C Division silver medal
- Under 16s Girls Team Manager (2019)
- Under 19s Girls Team Manager (2024)
Players will compete in the Welsh Colleges regional leagues, and the AOC national cup competitions. Additional friendlies and tournaments are encompassed in addition to league matches to give players regular playing opportunities.
- The college work in alliance with Merthyr Mustangs and Pontypridd Panthers clubs.
- The college has created positive links with Basketball Wales to host games, training camps and events.
Wilson Gomes
“I like the balance of mixing my A-Levels and basketball commitments within college. My coach is very encouraging and supportive in regards to my studies and basketball development.
Jon is an excellent coach and I like his values and methods. Jon has created a great environment and culture and his philosophy is to share the ball and encourage everyone to play Welsh Athletics and The College Merthyr Tydfil Regional Development Programme Endurance Programme.”
Y Coleg
Os ydych yn gadael ysgol ac yn meddwl am eich camau nesaf neu’n ddysgwr o oedolyn sydd am ddatblygu eich sgiliau a’ch cymwysterau, cewch weld yma pam y dylech ystyried Y Coleg Merthyr Tudful.
