Todays Spartans
SPARTAN BASKETBALL in SUTTON...................................
The Sutton Spartans Basketball Club share many of the beliefs of ancient Sparta. Despite the difficulties of playing against teams who are already very established and choose from a huge pool of players, the Sutton Spartans remain loyal to the local community, trying to give oppotunities to those who are from within it. Another similarity with the Ancient Spartans, is the demand for total effort and practice for the sake of the team. Spartan players are encouraged to develop a solid team ethic, where they concentrate on the game and pursue 'process' and 'performance' goals, rather than 'outcome' goals. As a result, you will see teams improve dramatically over each season. (For an explanation of these terms, go to our Sports Psychology section.) Hoplite Spartan warriors had to take time to work on their skills and this is ever encouraged in the Spartans basketball programme. Indeed, we have a belief that only 'Perfect Practice makes Perfect'. So, if you wish to be a street-baller, it is there that you will learn your art. If you want to develop the basics and fundamentals of both individual and team play, then the Spartans programme is for you.
Within our Spartan philosophy, we also learn that defeat is unimportant. Attempting to win is important and learning to improve and overcome adversity are the most important lessons for the future development of our young players. Our players are actively encouraged to follow the academic opportunities presented to them. Like the Hoplite warrior who neglects his Kleros, players who neglect their studies will find no place on the team. Losing a game of basketball is nothing to the loss of opportunities in life. We are more about developing better people, who are better equipped to go out into a wider society, than simply winning games. If you want to develop and become a better all-round individual, who is not afraid of hard work, is honest and willing to give everything for the team, then you will make an excellent modern day Spartan.