Collingwood All Stars has given its roster a huge boost by signing Big V League Division 2 star MVP Manny Hendrix.

The 188 cm shooting guard took the Western Port Steelers to the Grand Final series last year as he lit up the league with 24.5 points, 4 assists, 4 rebounds and 2 steals per game.

Coach Gani Sakiri said: ‘’Manny and the All Stars are stepping into a new and exciting future. He is a dynamic inclusion to our Big V men’s basketball program and our club.’’

Hendrix is expected to start alongside another All Star’s recruit Nick Ross, when the All Stars launch their 2016 season on 19th March against Oakleigh at GESAC (Glen Eira Sports and Aquatic Centre).

“Our first season was a learning curve and this year we’re looking for further growth and success. Manny’s inclusion will add leadership and experience to our roster on game day and equally importantly, he’s a quality individual who will add a huge amount to our community” added Sakiri.

Hendrix, who had tryouts with four NBA teams after graduating with a communications degree from Indiana Tech University, credits his father for the inspiration to pursue his basketball at the highest level.

His father Manuel played 89 games for the Dallas Cowboys during 1986-91, lining up at cornerback despite not playing at college, where he was a stellar basketballer at the University of Utah. He is currently Director of Athletic Relations there.

Manny has three older sisters, Krystal, Sharee and LaSaundra, all accomplished sportswomen and it was during regular family basketball games that he developed the toughness and resilience needed to succeed. “Although I’m the youngest, my sisters, especially LaSaundra, never made it easy for me. They inspired me to work hard and never back down”.

Manny wants to make a difference on and off the court for the All Stars.

‘’During my time in Australia I have had a lot of success on the court, but what I am most proud of is the impact I have made off the court,’’ said the 27 year old, who was born in Phoenix, Arizona.

‘’I believe I have made a difference at every association I have been part of. In 2012, I founded a reading program called ‘Reading is fundamental’ to encourage and promote reading among primary school children, especially those about to enter high school. Many sponsors backed the program and with the support of the Big V, it was elevated to new heights.’’

“I want to be part of what Collingwood is building and play a role in helping them fulfil their potential and leave a legacy across all their programs,’’ Hendrix said.

‘’The club and the venue has a very family oriented feel to it. This is important as I want to bring not only my basketball abilities to the club, but also my ability to connect with the kids and teenagers so I can share my life experiences with them to help influence them to make better life choices in the long run.’’

Hendrix, who has a 201cm wingspan, made the 2015 Division 2 Big V All Star Five and won the 2012 Big V Dunk Competition. He will be sure to bring plenty of excitement to the All Stars both on the court and whilst running holiday programs, working with High Performance Program participants and assisting with player and coach development.

Collingwood All Stars first home game is at 7pm, Saturday 2nd of April at Collingwood College. Entry will be hot property, so arrive early or purchase a Big V season’s pass here.