Scholarship tribute to Pa

By Bridget Brady
DONNA Stevens says a scholarship to cover the costs of her son’s busy basketball schedule has not just helped her in the hip pocket.
The Cranbourne single mother said the $490 scholarship her nine-year-old son Matthew received from Southern Chances has motivated him to strive for his dream of one day playing in the NBA since the death of a family member in September.
Ms Stevens said the scholarship has inspired Matthew to get back on track after he went through a rough time when his Pa died.
“He was very close to dad. When he got the scholarship I said if you want all this you’ve got to turn it around… so it was a big commitment,” Ms Stevens said.
“It was the best thing that ever happened to us.”
Matthew plays basketball four times a week, playing for the Berwick Tigers and representative side Cranbourne Cavaliers.
Ms Stevens said Matthew’s commitment to his sides had taught him much about dedication and team work.
Matthew used to call his Pa when he finished his basketball games to tell him how he went and now says he is playing for his Pa. “He always says I know Pa is watching me,” Ms Stevens said.
The scholarship has assisted Ms Stevens financially, covering the costs of fees and uniforms for Matthew’s two teams.
“It was a huge help. As a single mum you do what you can for your kids and I want to encourage them all the way.”