The Hop Heat girls have officially secured the gold medal in the U13 series, capping off an incredible season filled with determination, growth, and teamwork. Under the expert guidance of coaches Eric Fongué and Petter Schanke, the team dominated their competition, winning every game except for a narrow defeat to Frøya in their final match. Despite the late-season loss, their overall performance was enough to crown them champions—a well-deserved title for this dedicated group of young athletes.

Petter Schanke: A Veteran Coach with Deep Roots

Petter Schanke has been a steady force throughout the U13 series. With over a decade of coaching experience at the club, Schanke has been instrumental in the girls’ game-time success. His deep commitment to youth basketball is evident in his tireless work on the sidelines, guiding the team through every game of their championship season.

Schanke, a highly skilled basketball player himself who has played for the Ulriken Eagles, also has a personal connection to the sport—his daughter plays for Bergen Elite. This makes him even more dedicated to developing the next generation of talented female players.

Eric Fongué: Champion On and Off the Court

Joining Schanke is Eric Fongué, captain of the Fyllingen Lions, who guided his team to a Norwegian Championship title last season. Renowned for his skill, leadership, and mentorship, Fongué has played a pivotal role in developing the Hop girls’ playing style and boosting their confidence. His journey—from his hometown of Dietikon, Switzerland, through his experiences around the world, to becoming a top athlete in Norway—stands as an inspiring example for the players.

Fongué’s impact within the basketball community is inspiring. His dedication to youth development is evident through his involvement with Basketakademiet, where he helps young athletes hone their skills, build friendships across clubs, and develop a lasting passion for the game. The Hop Heat girls, many of whom participate in Basketakademiet’s holiday camps and skill development sessions, have benefitted tremendously from this additional training, gaining both technical expertise and invaluable camaraderie.

A Growing Force in Girls’ Basketball

The rise of the Hop Heat team is a testament to the club's commitment to expanding girls’ basketball. What started with only three players has grown into a thriving team that now fills an entire roster—and could soon form multiple squads. The initiative to create Hop Happy Girls in 2021 was a game-changer, providing girls with their own platform to grow, compete, and thrive.

In 2022, the club combined their 2012-born players with the 2011-born Hop Heroines, forming a unified U13 squad. The following season, with a surge of new 2012 players, Hop was able to create a standalone 2012-team—now known as Hop Heat—competing in their own series. This strategic move gave the girls more opportunities to play, bond, and develop, while some still had the option to play alongside the 2011 players in the U14 series.

The Power of Community and Role Models

The team’s success is not only a win for Hop but also a boost for girls’ basketball in the region. The girls regularly attend Fyllingen Lions games, cheering on their coach and role model, Eric Fongué. This connection to top-level basketball players fosters a deeper sense of belonging and ambition.

As the Hop Heat girls await their official gold medals at the final gathering before summer, their achievement stands as a shining example of what can be accomplished with talent, teamwork, and dedicated mentors. With the continued support of Basketakademiet and the broader basketball community, the future looks bright for these young champions.