Developing International Players
Experienced
Over 40 years experience and 40 countries visited, Developing International Players.
Dedicated
Committed to positively impacting as many lives as possible through the game of basketball.
Professional
A proven history, founded on honesty, respect, and integrity.
Our Leadership Team
Robert "Dip" Donaldson
DIP Crusaders, it’s in the name. Founded by Robert “Dip” Donaldson, the man and the mission have been in action for over 40 years. The original Crusaders foundation was formed in Coventry, England in 1992, with the professional team Coventry Crusaders Basketball Club. Since then, Robert has amassed decades of international basketball experience, through a variety of leadership roles on and off the court. His experience includes a legendary professional playing career in the UK, owning and operating a Professional Basketball Club, representing Great Britain on the international stage as a Player and Coach, along with leading teams as a Head Coach at the High School, College/University, and Professional level.
Robert has continued leaving a legacy on the game of basketball worldwide through his leadership and intentional relationships. His love and commitment for developing others has allowed countless players and coaches to achieve great success, on and off the basketball court. Robert combines his experience and expertise to bring DIP Crusaders to life, Developing International Players into the best they are capable of becoming.
- 40+ year professional, international basketball playing and coaching career
- Travelled to over 40 countries
- Coached at every level from High School to NBA and International players
- Former England National Team Player and Coach
- Served on England Basketball Association Board of Directors: Director of International Teams
- Owned and Operated a Professional Basketball Club with Youth, Wheelchair, Men's and Women's National League Teams
Sydney Donaldson
Sydney brings unique experience to DIP Crusaders both on and off the court. He is one of Robert’s six children and is a product of the Crusaders Youth Development Program. Sydney was a part of multiple Coventry Crusaders U16 and U18 Championship teams before breaking into the Senior Men’s team one season ahead of moving to the USA in Longmont, Colorado. After leading the Longmont Trojans as a 4A All-Colorado State Player and Northern Conference Player of the Year, Sydney spent one season at Charis Prep School in Wilson, NC. His collegiate career consisted of four successful years at The College of Idaho, winning back-to-back Conference and Conference Tournament Titles, along with two NAIA National Tournament appearances. After college, Sydney went on to play four seasons professionally in the UK and Italy before returning to the States.
Off the court, Sydney has led multiple community sports development programs centered around basketball, as well as fulfilling the role of Sports Coordinator at the West YMCA in Boise, ID. He has a heart for serving the community and pushing the international game of basketball forward.
- A product of of the Crusaders Youth Development Program
- Multiple High School and College Championships
- Career record holder at The College of Idaho (NAIA)
- Professional Basketball Career in the UK and Italy
- 10+ Years of Community Sports Development