The WF Flames ran through the abbreviated 2019-2020 season undefeated in the CBL U16 Division 2. Led by the live-wire athleticism of Odeine Beckford , the all-around versatility of Di-Jani Parkinson and ‘I’m a Bucket’ scoring flurries from Oskaras Striuga, the flames proved too much for D2 competition in running off a perfect 5-0 record before the season was cut short due to COVID-19. With only 2 games left at the time of shutdown, it was clear the Flames were headed to their first-ever CBL championship – and they certainly earned every inch of the respect gathered along the way.
The Flames are based in Walthamstow, North East London, and led by head coach Josh Wehner, who has been developing basketball and life-skills in young people throughout his home borough via his club since 2013. Inspired by the London Olympic games of 2012, Coach Wehner has tirelessly been investing his time, energy and skills into ‘giving back’ to the community he was raised in, through a sport that helped guide him successfully through to adulthood. His coach and mentor, the legendary Joe White (RIP), taught Coach Wehner the values of the game and how they can successfully guide you off court, while developing his skills at one of the best London development programs of all time (Hackney White Heat). Just as his coach has done for him, Wehner now is passing on the same lessons to the next generation in his community. An admirable legacy that should be recognised and applauded by all.
