The Buddha’s Light International Association Cup got under way in Taiwan on July 23.
Basketball New Zealand chief executive officer Dillon Boucher, along with national team staff, led the men’s and women’s teams on July 19 to receive blessings at Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple in Flat Bush before they headed overseas.
Abbess Manshin and BLIA members of Fo Guang Shan lit lamps in the temple’s main shrine for the departing teams and recited Master Hsing Yun’s “Prayer for Athletes,” wishing them success in their journey and achievements.
Among those on hand for the ceremony was Sally Wong, consultant of the International Buddha’s Light Association of New Zealand North Island, as well as other officials.
Boucher, on behalf of the teams, presented a gratitude gift to the temple, a basketball signed by the players and a jersey number 48, expressing appreciation for the temple’s support.
He emphasised that the players represent not only themselves but also their clubs and country, carrying both honour and responsibility.
He hopes for their success so they could return to Fo Guang Shan in New Zealand to share good news with Abbess Manshin and the community.
Abbess Manshin encouraged the players to maintain unwavering confidence, noting the significance of the numbers four and eight.
The Abbess gifted auspicious apples to the team, encouraging them to unite, give their best, be grateful to their opponents, and surpass themselves.
The temple arranged vegetarian meals for the teams, leading them in reciting the “Four Verses of Buddha’s Light” before meals.
Player Lauren Tewhata spoke on behalf of the teams, thanking the temple for enabling their participation in Taiwan.
The men’s and women’s teams performed a haka and expressed their gratitude to the Abbess and teams.
FGS Youth performed the Open Your Heart and 3G4G Song dances to uplift the athletes, culminating the farewell event with spirit and enthusiasm.
The teams participating in the Buddha’s Light Cup were selected from 17 top clubs across New Zealand.
Matt Lacey coached 12 male basketball players, and Ryan Dubbeldam led 10 female basketball players, departing on July 20.
This marks New Zealand’s third participation in the event, with both teams winning bronze medals in the previous edition.
Upon returning home, team members visited Fo Guang Shan temples multiple times across the North and South Islands to express gratitude for the auspicious opportunities and international friendships gained from the Buddha’s Light International Association Cup.
- The NZ Women’s Select Team, coached by Ryan Dubbeldam, will include: Rangikahiwa (Honey) Cooney, Hannah Dunn, Opal Hardy, Cassidy (Hana) Lacey-Rameka, Allyah Leusogi-Ape, Piri Lewis, Aliyah Newton, Hineaupounamu (Missy) Nuku, Izzy Pugh and Lauren Tewhata.
- The NZ Men’s Select Team will comprise of: Adam Barton, Will Blight, Jonty Bond, Ezrah Eagle, Julius Halaifonua, Mahnaya Heke, Carter Hopoi, Ryan Hunt, Xanda Marsters, Kahu Treacher, Chris Wyllie and Josh Wyllie and will be coached by Matt Lacey.
