DAVE Bonwick, who served his apprenticeship as Andre Alleyne's No 2 at Manchester Giants, is the driving force behind the thriving Salford Basketball Centre.

The Centre, which was established at Canon Williamson High School in Peel Green in January, currently has 150 players taking part in coaching sessions and matches on a weekly basis.

In addition to organising basketball leagues for children and adults, Bonwick provides coaching in the local schools and runs basketball camps every school holiday at the Centre.

The next camp runs from October 21-23, 9.30am to 3.30pm each day, and is open to seven to 14-year-olds of all abilities, both boys and girls. The camp costs £25 for three days or £10 per day.

Bonwick started his coaching career while still at school.

Since there were no members of staff willing to run any school basketball clubs, the 15-year-old took it upon his own shoulders.

From there he went on to coach junior teams and then was asked to work with the Manchester Giants junior basketball teams.

In three years there he coached two teams to national finals and helped five youngsters gain regular places on the England junior squads.

From this success, Bonwick worked as assistant coach to the England Cadet team in the BAM 2000 tournament in Andorra. Eventually, he worked alongside Alleyne during a difficult period in the Giants history.

And while the team didn't pick up any silverware, Bonwick did enough to secure another assistant coaching position with the Birmingham Bullets.

"The team was high profile, being one of only two British teams to play in the Northern European Basketball Leagues," said Bonwick.

"The competitions took us to many different countries."

For further information on the Centre or call Dave on 07939 582460. Tweet