Sanibel Tropics bring home first basketball championship
The Sanibel Tropics Storm basketball team made history on Sunday, Oct. 25, capturing its first championship with an impressive 32-10 victory over Team Ghosty in the Next Level Ignite League Championship at Redline Athletics in Fort Myers.
The championship victory capped off an exciting season for team Storm, who finished with a 5-1 record and secured the title during the league’s playoff tournament. The achievement marks an important milestone for a youth basketball program that began just over a year ago with nine players and has since grown to 26 children ranging from first through fifth grade.
Founded by head coach Dr. Dylan Murphy, alongside assistant coach Carey Galantino, the Sanibel Tropics was created to provide island children with opportunities to participate in competitive basketball while developing teamwork, discipline, sportsmanship, and confidence.
The team practices at the Sanibel Recreation Center, where young island athletes come together to develop their basketball skills, build friendships, and learn the value of teamwork. For a community that has seen limited opportunities for competitive youth sports in recent years, the Sanibel Tropics represents an exciting step toward rebuilding organized athletics for local children.
For many of the players, the championship represents just how far they have come in a remarkably short time.
“I couldn’t be prouder of this group of kids,” said Murphy. “Throughout the season, they’ve shown tremendous growth, not just as basketball players, but as teammates. Their commitment to one another, their willingness to work hard, and the effort they’ve put in every step of the way have been incredible to watch.”
He said the championship was not give to the team.
“This championship wasn’t given to them; they earned it through dedication, perseverance, and teamwork,” Murphy said. “To see all that hard work pay off with a 32-10 victory over Team Ghosty in the Next Level Ignite League Championship is something special. These kids deserve every bit of this moment, and we’re incredibly proud to bring the championship title home to Sanibel.”
Galantino reflected on the team’s development, noting that many players began the program with little or no organized basketball experience.
“Most of these kids couldn’t pass, dribble or shoot at all a year ago. We have made strides,” said Galantino. “I love seeing them succeed, of course, but knowing where we started to where we are now is my favorite tidbit.”
Galantino said the success came from consistent practice, dedication, and the encouragement of the families who supported the program throughout the season.
“Coming to practice, putting in the time! Hard work pays off,” Galantino said. “Thank you for the parents who have provided positive support and energy. Love seeing our local community and island succeed! Let’s keep it rolling.”
For a small island community where competitive youth sports opportunities have been limited, the Sanibel Tropics is helping create new pathways for young athletes to learn, compete, and grow together.
Community partnerships have also played an important role in the program’s growth and success. The Sanibel Tropics is proudly sponsored by Marty Harrity of HM Restaurant Group, whose continued support helps provide competitive basketball opportunities for young island athletes.
The team also recently received a grant from the Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club. Together, these contributions reflect the community’s commitment to expanding youth sports opportunities and investing in the next generation of Sanibel athletes.
The Sanibel Tropics looks forward to continuing its development, welcoming young players, and building on the momentum of an unforgettable season.