Firstly, where are you going?

I’m joining Basketball Australia in the newly-created role of Basketball Network Manager. I was approached for the role, which involves the development and implementation of a national database as part of BA’s strategic plan. Basketball has a compelling story to tell through its sheer involvement, and this is a chance to tell that story. It’ll be part of a re-organised Game Development Department which will be headed up by former Dandenong Basketball Association CEO Graeme Allan. It’ll be Melbourne-based, which means I can continue to live in Geelong.

What are your early memories of your time at Basketball Geelong?

I came to BG with the perception of it being a reputable association, accomplished on court and with a professional club structure. But it wasn’t without its issues on my first day I found the phone wasn’t connected and the computer didn’t work. We will still working out of what is now the ticket office and were in the midst of transitioning our results server from Interfuse to Sporting Pulse. I remember it being a natural progression from Bellarine Peninsula to Basketball Geelong. The board took a risk appointing a 25-year-old to such a demanding position. They’re just volunteers, but the mentoring and support provided by the likes of Frank Morrissy, Matthew Cowling, Chris Burrell, Aaron Green, Lynne Green, John Stevens and Ian Sweet, has been invaluable.

What was your biggest challenge on arrival at Basketball Geelong?

Building a rapport with clubs. There are a number of great people who have been involved for a number of years and I’m not Geelong born-and-bred. It took more than six months, but having those relationships, and seeing the development of clubs, has probably been one of the most rewarding aspects of the job.

What’s been your biggest accomplishment during your time as BG GM?

There’s been a number. Competition growth from 200 teams in July 2007 to 353 for the 2012-13 summer season. Our referee program is back on track, with 120 active officials. I’ve enjoyed my role in the amalgamation of Basketball Geelong and the Supercats. We’ve hosted four international matches, including the Opals twice and Boomers once. We are now getting 350 children involved in camps. I’m proud of the addition of Surf Coasters as a new club in the BG family.

What legacy do you hope to have left?

Good competitions. People enjoy coming here (Geelong Arena) and want to be part of it. I’d like to think of the stadium as like a community hub.

Is there a regret from your time at BG.

Because of the limitation on the resources we’ve had, BG has had to be discerning in what we prioritised. Female participation is still waiting to be fully addressed. Part of the plan has been executed with the addition of the SEABL women’s side. They’ve proven to be great role models. However, a comprehensive plan to get more women involved isn’t there yet. Our growth has come from male participation.

What will you miss most about BG?

It is tough to leave with BG in such a good place. Internally, we have resources to do business better and the opportunity to learn from having a CEO as capable as Andrew Scotford here. The tough work has been done. We have a good reputation, a strong relationship with the City of Greater Geelong, great corporate partners. We are ready for next level. I’m disappointed not to see that through.

What has been your Big V Highlight?

Without a doubt, the Division 1 men and the success they’ve had in the last five years. They represent what our club has been about- the underdog. Not the biggest or best on paper, just sheer determination. Volunteers like the Bow family are what make this organisation. Little do people know Shayne runs an All-Abilities session before training on a Thursday at Corio Leisuretime Centre. They don’t do it for recognition.

What has been your Junior Representative Highlight?

The success in under 12’s and under 14’s in recent years lays the platform for a bright future. Along with the quality of coaches born and bred Geelong putting back into the program.

What has been your domestic program highlight?

The support we’ve given to outlying areas, including Surf Coast and Golden Plains, resulting in the entry of the Surf Coasters. Also our relationship with Bellarine Peninsula through hosting of the National Schools Championship, coaches courses etc…

You were appointed in 2007 here at BG, 2012 sees you off to BA. In 2017 where do you hope to be?

That’s a tough question. I have a career path. I need to finish my Masters in Business , which has a sport management focus. Combining that knowledge with experience at Basketball Australia, I hope to continue to put basketball at the forefront of the minds of the sporting community. For now, I’ll still be a Geelong girl. I have house to renovate, and a wedding to look forward to Fiji on May 31.

What advice do you have for your replacement?

Enjoy the people. Competitions can be a lot of data- fixtures, results and ladders. But it’s the people who make Basketball Geelong, and they're our biggest asset.