ABOUT US
Welcome to Surrey Rams Basketball Club, one of the UK's largest basketball clubs. Our sessions cater to boys aged 8 to 18, ranging from complete beginners to elite players. Additionally, we provide sessions for men competing at the National Basketball League Senior Division 3 level.
We constantly welcome new club players. If you're keen on advancing your basketball skills, whether as an elite player or a beginner, our inclusive club caters to all levels of interest. Join us and take your basketball journey to the next level!
OUR COACHES
Coach Lwambo Junior:
Hailing from Goma, DR Congo, Junior embarked on his basketball journey in 2002, achieving seven championships with local teams. Co-founding Promo Jeune Basketball Academy (PJB) from 2007-2016, he coached over 500 players, including NBA's Jonathan Kumina. Junior played for a D1 team in Kigali from 2016-2018 before joining Surrey Rams in the UK in 2022.
Coach Barrie Waters:(6th Form Academy and Junior NL)
A basketball enthusiast since age 14, Barrie played for Guildford Heat, Worcester Wolves, Reading Rockets, and Surrey Scorchers. As a coach for Surrey Rams, he finds fulfillment coaching the U18 Premier side and was honored as Surrey Heath Games Coach of the Year 2022.
Coach Olivier Rival: (NL and International Tournament coach)
Originally from France, Olivier has been in the UK for 25 years. Playing for Pace in Brittany and later Kingston in National League Division 1, he coached Fetcham Cannons until 2020. Passionate about youth development, Olivier coaches U16 Premier and U16 Surrey CVL for Surrey Rams.
Coach Alex Calhoum: (U12 NL and CVL U12/U14/U16 Coach)
Basketball has been a passion for Alex for 38 years, either as a fan, a player (though he says ‘not good’), a parent of a Rams player and a now as a Rams coach.
Alex did some coaching in his younger years and more recently worked with his son during his 10 years at Surrey Rams. During that time he saw first-hand the discipline, fitness, teamwork, respect for others and lifelong relationships basketball gave him through the Rams and felt he to help as many boys as possible to have the same experiences. Philosophically, Alex love defence, rebounding and teamwork.
Alex said ‘Whatever age group I’m lucky enough to coach, is a privilege and I absolutely love to see the boys that really put their minds to it, develop and grow.’
Club Founder and Head Coach Lekan Popoola
"Coach Lekan Popoola, the Head Coach and Founder of Surrey Rams Basketball Club, embarked on his basketball journey at the age of 15 with Crystal Palace Basketball Club in 1996. It was here that he first discovered his love for the sport and began honing his skills on the court. A year later, at the age of 16, he transitioned to Brixton Top Cats, a pivotal moment that set the course for his future in basketball.
During his time with Brixton Top Cats, Coach Lekan showcased remarkable talent and dedication, earning a spot on the U19's team and the Division 1 Senior men's team. His early experiences with Brixton Top Cats played a crucial role in shaping his development as a basketball player and laying the foundation for his successful career in the sport."
"After his formative years with Brixton Top Cats, Coach Lekan's basketball journey continued to flourish as he pursued opportunities both nationally and internationally. Upon completing his time with Brixton Top Cats, Coach Lekan ventured to the United States to attend Gunnery Prep School in Connecticut from 2000 to 2001. This experience broadened his horizons and further fueled his passion for the game.
Following his prep school experience, Coach Lekan pursued higher education while continuing to excel in basketball. He attended Ursinus College from 2001 to 2005, where he showcased his exceptional skills on the court as a member of the college basketball team. His collegiate career provided invaluable experiences and opportunities for growth, shaping him into a formidable player.
After college, Coach Lekan embarked on a professional playing career that took him across various teams in the United Kingdom. From 2005 to 2010, he made significant contributions to teams such as Guildford/Surrey Heat, Sheffield Sharks, Birmingham Panthers, Everton Tigers, and Westminster Warriors. His tenure with these professional teams showcased his talent and dedication to the sport.
In 2011, Coach Lekan achieved a significant milestone in his career when he earned an international cap for the Nigeria national team. Representing his country on the international stage was a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport.
In 2010, while still actively playing professionally, Coach Lekan founded the Surrey Rams Basketball Club, formerly known as Surrey Heat. In 2012, he rebranded the club to Surrey Rams Basketball Club, marking a new chapter in the club's history. Under his leadership, the club has grown significantly and achieved remarkable success, including competing in the premier league at U14, U16, and U18 levels. Coach Lekan's vision and passion for the game have been instrumental in shaping the Surrey Rams into a formidable force in the basketball community."
**Our Foundation: A Decade of Dedication and Growth**
Surrey Rams Basketball Club was founded in 2010 by ex professional basketball player Coach Lekan Popoola, marking the beginning of a decade-long journey dedicated to basketball excellence in Surrey. Coach Lekan's vision was clear: to establish a club that not only nurtured the love for the sport but also served as a platform for aspiring players to grow, develop, and succeed.
**A Visionary Leader**
Coach Lekan Popoola, the driving force behind Surrey Rams, brought his passion, experience, expertise, and commitment to the club's foundation. As a Level 2 qualified coach with a deep understanding of the game, Coach Lekan envisioned a community where basketball could be a catalyst for personal and athletic development.
**A Community Hub for Basketball Enthusiasts**
Since its inception, Surrey Rams has evolved into a community hub for basketball enthusiasts of all ages. The club's commitment to inclusivity and skill development has attracted players from diverse backgrounds, creating a vibrant and supportive basketball family.
**A Legacy of Excellence**
Over the years, Surrey Rams has left an indelible mark on the local basketball scene. The club's emphasis on holistic player development, teamwork, and sportsmanship has led to numerous successes on the court. The legacy of excellence established by Coach Lekan continues to inspire new generations of players within the Surrey Rams community.
**Looking Ahead**
As Surrey Rams celebrates over a decade of existence, the club remains committed to its core values of passion, inclusivity, and growth. Coach Lekan's founding vision continues to guide the club toward new horizons, ensuring that Surrey Rams remains a beacon for those who seek not only to play basketball but to thrive and succeed both within the sport and in life.
Join Surrey Rams as we celebrate our foundation, our community, and the exciting journey that lies ahead. Here's to many more years of basketball brilliance and personal growth!
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