About DIP Crusaders
Every player needs an opportunity to succeed. Whether you are a local player looking to develop your skillset, or an international prospect hoping to pursue a basketball career. With the game of basketball rapidly growing worldwide, we have found many players getting lost in the shuffle. Whether it’s a lack of quality coaching, adequate training facilities, proper guidance, exposure, or affordable programs, we provide a genuine professional development pathway with the goal of complete player development in the hands of a highly experienced team who have your best interest at heart.
Operating under our nonprofit organization, Crusaders International, Inc 501(c)(3), the original foundation of the organization extends back more than 30 years in England, United Kingdom, founded by Robert Donaldson, President and CEO.
Mission
To use basketball as a tool to transform lives with a lasting impact.
Vision
To provide international players a complete development pathway and genuine guidance for a professional basketball career.
Core Values
Integrity
Our Leadership Team
Robert "Dip" Donaldson
President & CEO
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, serving the next generation of basketball players to become the best they are capable of.
– 40+ year professional, international basketball playing and coaching career
– Travelled to over 40 countries
– Coached players at every level from High School to NBA and International pro’s.
– 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
Director of operations
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. Played five professional seasons overseas in the UK and Italy.
Off the court, Sydney has led multiple community sports development programs centered around basketball, and 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
– 5 years of Professional Basketball experience internationally
– 10+ Years of Community Sports Development