Local Teens Headed To London To Play Basketball

Eatonville High School juniors Bailey Andersen and Lillian Bickford have seized an incredible opportunity to travel to London and participate in a basketball tournament.

Eatonville's Bailey Andersen and Lillian Bickford are headed to London to play basketball. Photo: Bailey Andersen

Andersen and Bickford, who are currently juniors at Eatonville High School, caught the eye of a coach while attending an NBC basketball camp in Auburn in June 2022. Recognizing their remarkable skills, the coach nominated them for this extraordinary chance. Following an application process and phone interview, both girls secured their positions on the team heading to London. They received confirmation of their selection in November of last year. The team comprises talented girls from Washington, Idaho, and British Columbia.

During their time in London, Andersen and Bickford will not only compete in a 3-on-3 tournament north of Liverpool but will also face local teams in friendly matches. Additionally, they are excited about the prospect of experiencing the Beatles tour, immersing themselves in Liverpool's rich cultural heritage.

“I’m super excited, it’s a once in a life time opportunity so we’re really going to make the most out of it,” Andersen said. “I’m most excited to see all the different cultures, architecture, people, food and especially the style of basketball that different countries play if it’s any different. I’d like to make some connections while we’re there on both England teams and my own team since I don’t know any of my teammates besides Lillian.”

Bickford is excited to try new foods she said, “What I’m super excited for is the food and to try a lot of new things. I’m typically a picky eater, but who knows, maybe I’ll find something i really like there.” She finished with “I’m also happy to be able to meet a lot of new people and make more friends, plus it will be fun to play with different people and see the differences between how we play here and how they play there.”

The teens' head coach, Deanna Andersen, expressed great pride in their efforts and preparations, stating, "For most kids, traveling abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. They will grow both as players and individuals while navigating different cultures." She concluded, "I am very proud of the work they have already put into preparing for this trip."

However, this dream journey comes with a significant cost of approximately $6,000 per girl. To offset this expense, Andersen and Bickford have devised a creative solution: a Free-throw Shooting Fundraiser. On June 2nd, at Eatonville High School, both girls will attempt 100 free throws each. They are extending an invitation to individuals to sponsor their efforts by pledging a specific dollar amount for each successful basket made.

The girls would also like to express their gratitude to the Eatonville Eagles club for their generous donation toward their trip.

To support Bailey Andersen and Lillian Bickford by sponsoring this fundraiser, interested parties are encouraged to contact Deanna Andersen, the girls' basketball coach at Eatonville High School. She can be reached via email at d.andersen@eatonville.wednet.edu or by phone at 253-905-4142.