Southend Saints basketball club fear they may become victims of their own success next season.

Saints celebrated the most successful season in their eight year existence last term when they won both the Essex League Play-off Championship and the inaugural cup competition.

They lost just two matches all year on their way to second place in the League - and both of these were duly avenged as they took silverware for the first time.

Now the club - whose squad has an average age of 18 - fear they may lose most of their homegrown talent to careers in the United States.

John Jowers will definitely be missing as he resumes his college career in Atlanta.He is likely to be joined by both Gianni Lettieri and Jonathan May, who is looking to resume his studies in New York.

Also looking to make the trip across the Atlantic is Andy Mathurin, who is being actively recruited by a Division I college in Oklahoma, Andy's 15-year-old brother Chris, and 7ft 2in 16-year-old Liam Hughes, a target for high schools across the States.

Saints' reputation has been built on its junior programme, which has resulted in the club producing numerous county players and England representatives, as well as players for national professional teams such as the London Leopards.

However, there are ready-made replacements for any US-bound players thanks to the club's excellent youth policy. Six of their present up-and-coming players have already achieved Essex representative honours at various age groups.

Hawkwell and Hockley ladies basketball club are hoping to net a couple of newcomers aged 16+ for the new season.

The club, who train at Greensward College on Wednesday (7.30pm-9pm), was formed from friends who had played for the all-conquering basketball side at Greensward school.

Now the friendly club are looking to expand their ranks to play in the local Essex leagues and anyone interested should call Carly on 01702 203008.

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