Medway Park Crusaders have made 2 significant additions to their men’s squad adding youth with Kalil Irving and experience in Sam Salter.
Irving, a 6’6 wing, returns to Crusaders after a season at the Masters School in America. In 2009-10 he was a starter and 
key player for the Crusaders, averaging 10 pts and 6 rebounds per game. However his greatest asset is the intangibles he brings with his ability to defend multiple positions and energy.
Irving has been with the Crusaders juniors for over 10 years and is a product of their academy at The Canterbury High School.
Head Coach James Vear is very pleased to have Irving back, “”I was lucky enough to have Kalil play for me the first season I took over as the mens coach. Back then he was only 17 but was one of the better players on the team. You can see the year he had in the states has really improved aspects of his game that will allow him to be a real force in Division 1.
“There are not many players his age that are better getting to the basket and he has improved his jump shot and defence to make him a better all round player. I think picking up Kalil is the last piece in the puzzle and I am very happy with the squad we have put together.”
Irving is looking forward to reuniting with his old team, “I’m glad to be back in the Crusaders basketball organisation for this up coming season. I will have an opportunity to play under James for a whole season, which I’m excited about as he’s an outstanding coach. I’m also glad to be back on the same team as Dizzy like the good old days of academy. I’m really looking forward to the upcoming season with all the new players, and new assistant coach Craig [Nicol].”
Also joining Crusaders is guard Sam Salter. Salter has a great deal of experience having played for a number of BBL teams as well as in Finland. He has also won 2 national cups, for Crusaders rivals in EBL1 London Leopards and Brixton Topcats.
Coach Vear feels that Salter will play a key role for Crusaders, “”Sam is another great addition to the squad. He is a veteran player who has great experience in English Basketball. He is a great spot up shooter and he is getting better with each practice. Sam has been great with the younger players and his knowledge of the game is second to none.”
Salter, who is originally from Canada, is also excited to be joining Medway Park, “Medway have made some great signings for this upcoming season that have made the team deep and well balanced. I feel we have the ability to compete for all major titles this season. I hope my experience and ability can add that extra bit to push us toward title contention.”