Basketball duo Steven Perks and Ross Steven are set to swap essays for SA after netting a place in a National League team's touring line-up

The York College pair, who have been sitting 'AS' examinations this term, have both earned a place in the Leeds Tigers' touring party that jets off to South Africa next month.

The Tigers, set to be one of the major teams in next season's National Junior League North Conference, fly out this Sunday to defend the Engen Under-18 National Tournament Trophy they won last year in Johannesburg.

And Perks and Steven, both 17, will have finished their exams just in time to play their part in the two-week tour, which also includes a coaching clinic for disadvantaged youngsters in Durban.

The two teenagers, from Burnholme and Acomb respectively, switched from York Vikings Basketball Club in February in a bid to taste national league action, as the Vikings' junior teams then only played local competition - though that, as reported, is set to change.

"The Vikings didn't play in a league and I joined the Tigers to play at that higher standard," said Perks, who with Steven will go on to complete 'A' Levels, including one in sports studies, next year.

"We've heard the York team are to join a league but I will still stay with Leeds, despite the fact it's more travelling. I feel dedicated and loyal to them and they're a better team."

The duo's ambition is to go on to play in Britain's top professional league, which is still dominated by US-born players.

"I would love to play for Sheffield Sharks (the nearest pro club to York) or any of the National League teams," said Perks.

"There are some great players down at Leeds and any of them could make it as long as we train hard enough and keep at it."

Updated: 12:14 Wednesday, June 27, 2001