Tornado KM U-11 boys compete at the Coquelles Eurochallenge 2026 in France

2026 gegužė 26 d., antradienis

On May 23–24, Tornado KM boys born in 2015, coached by Šarūnas Zablockis, participated in the international youth basketball tournament “Coquelles Eurochallenge 2026” in France. The sixth edition of the tournament brought together 16 teams from France, Germany, Belgium, and Lithuania. Although our team did not manage to reach the medal positions this time, the young players returned to Lithuania filled with unforgettable memories, valuable experience, and important lessons.

The tournament format was slightly different from the usual system. All 16 teams were divided into four groups of four teams each. After the first stage, the top eight teams advanced to compete for medals, while the remaining teams continued battling for positions 9–16. The schedule was extremely intense — some teams played four games per day, while others had to play five. Each game consisted of two 10-minute running-time halves, meaning there was no time to relax, complain, or lose concentration. Every second on the court required maximum effort and determination.

Tornado KM opened the tournament with a confident victory against “Marseille 5” from France. In the second game, the team faced “Charenton”. Although the boys entered the game highly motivated, they struggled to adjust to the lower baskets and the French team secured the win. The third game of the day against “Denain Voltaire” from France became crucial in the battle for second place in the group and a spot among the tournament’s top eight teams. Despite a much-improved performance, strong opponents once again closed the door on Tornado KM’s hopes of fighting for medals.

After the first stage, teams were regrouped according to their results. On Saturday, Tornado KM still had two more games ahead — a Lithuanian derby in France against KM “Perkūnas”, which ended in a friendly draw, followed by a convincing victory against Belgium’s “SN Condors”.

On the second day of the tournament, coach Šarūnas Zablockis’ players faced “Niners Chemnitz” from Germany, “Mustangs Mulhouse” from France, and once again KM “Perkūnas” from Lithuania. Tornado KM won all three games, which kept the mood inside the team camp extremely positive despite eventually finishing in ninth place overall.

„Of course, it is a bit disappointing that we did not make it into the top eight teams of the tournament and did not have the opportunity to compete for medals, but such tournaments bring huge value for the kids,“ said coach Šarūnas Zablockis. – „The game format, although unusual, is very good – you have to make quick decisions, stay focused, because the result can change in an instant. We came back with many valuable lessons and new experiences.“

The coach also thanked the referees for their excellent work, the tournament organizers, the parents who allowed their children to take part in the event, as well as everyone who supported the team from the stands. A special thanks was also given to Dovilė, who made sure that the journey and the team’s participation were shared and visible on social media.

The team was also deeply impressed by the atmosphere of the tournament itself. The entire weekend felt like a true celebration of the local basketball community — countless volunteers, photographers, a brass band performing during the finals, enthusiastic supporters, and a positive atmosphere everywhere created a truly special experience.

Although the team had very little free time, the boys still managed to meet players from other countries and visit the coast of the English Channel, where they enjoyed the beautiful white sand beach.

Tornado KM would like to sincerely thank the tournament organizers and especially Romain Delhez for the invitation, warm hospitality, excellent conditions, and perfectly organized event, as well as the trophies and medals for all participants. Special thanks also go to all volunteers and staff members who helped create such an unforgettable basketball celebration. We hope to return to Coquelles next year even stronger and ready to fight for the highest positions.