Coverforce Heartland Crew Q&A - Ai-Dan Huynh

The Coverforce Heartland Crew is the backbone of South East Melbourne Phoenix. They volunteer their time to make game day the best for Phoenix fans and less stress for front office staff, players and coaches. 

Meet Ai-Dan Huynh
Age: 18

How long have you been volunteering with South East Melbourne Phoenix, and why did you join the Coverforce Heartland Crew?

3 Years since the inaugural season. I joined the Covervforce Heartland Crew as it was the first new sporting club for an Australian sport in a while and I wanted to see it from the beginning and continue to watch the club grow on and off the court.

(Ai-Dan has been a valuable member of the Coverforce Heartland Crew for over 3 years.)

What is your role/job while volunteering at Phoenix?

My role during game day varies due to the numbers we have, sometimes it's court sweeping, someday it’s activations or giveaways, it’s sometimes corporate and hospitality, sometimes leadership roles. I am just grateful for any role I get given and I go in with the can do and 100% mindset.

What is your favourite thing about volunteering with Phoenix?

The people from the front office, to the players, to the crew everyone is so nice and it feels like another family outside my own family.

What has been your highlight of your time with the Phoenix?

First season court sweeping John Roberson’s over time. The team was fighting for a win and it was just a miracle shot and was great to see. Also meeting Zach Randolph.

What do you love about the club?

The closeness between everyone, volunteers and front office and the acceptance of to be who you are.

(Ai-Dan helping to raise funds at a Phoenix game during the Victorian bushfire tragedies in early 2020.) 

Are you involved with basketball outside of game days?

I am a domestic basketball head coach for the Wattle Park Saints, I used to be an Assistant Coach for Nunawading Spectres. I am also a level 1 basketball scorer.

Is a career in basketball something you would like to pursue?

Not sure at the moment, something in sport is what I would like to do for sure.

What is your day job or are you studying?

I will begin this year a Bachelor of Sports Media course at Holmesglen. I have previously done a Certificate 2 & 3 in Sport Recreation at SEDA College and recently finished a dual diploma of Sport and Business at SEDA Group.

Who is your favourite Phoenix player?

My two favourite players are Ryan Broekhoff and Kyle Adnam.

Phoenix Media (25/2/22)