The Ah-Hing Family’s Inspiring Journey in Basketball

For the Ah-Hing family, basketball is more than just a sport – it’s a way to bond and represent their Tongan roots on a global platform. The family’s journey, from refereeing to coaching, has been driven by a deep love for the game and a desire to give back to the community and the sport that has given them so much.

A Legacy of Service

At the heart of the Ah-Hing family’s basketball journey is the value of service. Natasha emphasizes, “It’s never been about us; it’s always about doing what’s best for others, especially for our country.” The family’s contributions to the sport have been driven by a deep love for Tonga and a desire to give back to the community and the sport that has given them so much.

The Family’s Journey

Tamilo, the player in the family, often benefits from the advice his sisters and mother give him. “It’s a huge honor to play for my country and my family, and grateful for the support they have given me,” Tamilo shared. The family sees their role in the U15 team as setting a pathway for younger generations of Tongan athletes, showing them that anything is possible if they put in the work.

Inspirating the Next Generation

Logan’s aspirations for the future are also focused on the idea of inspiring the next generation. “We want others to see if we can do it, they can do it too,” Logan states. The Ah-Hing family’s involvement in basketball is not just about their accomplishments; it’s about creating opportunities and paving the way for future players, coaches, and referees from Tonga.

From Refereeing to Coaching

Emma, one of the referees, has had a major milestone with her debut at the U15 Oceania Cup. The family’s presence at the event has been instrumental in boosting her confidence. “I wanted to give up reffing for good forever, but having my family there to push me to carry on helped me say yes to refereeing on one of the biggest platforms of basketball,” Emma shares.

A Pathway for Others

If a mum of 12 like myself can get the call up to be an assistant coach, then other mums can too. This is the mindset of the Ah-Hing family, who embody the belief that leadership, teamwork, and service go hand in hand, creating a lasting legacy that will inspire not only their children but future generations of Tongans involved in sports.

Conclusion

The Ah-Hing family’s inspiring journey in basketball is a testament to the power of love, hard work, and dedication. From refereeing to coaching, their contributions to the sport have been driven by a deep passion for Tonga and a desire to give back to the community. Their legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Tongan athletes, coaches, and referees, creating a pathway for others to follow in their footsteps.