President Brett Nazzari announced “the start of an exciting new era for basketball in our area” as the East Perth District Basketball Association (EPDBA) appointed two very experienced development coaches to its roster. Former SBL player Steve Williams was announced as the Head of Junior Coaching and Development and former Rockingham Flames SBL coach Adam Forde as the Junior Development Officer.

In making the announcement, Mr Nazzari said that “the appointment of such experienced and talented coaches is a major boost to our vision of the long-term development of all players so they can reach their ultimate potential”.

Williams’ role will include initiating and running an Elite Player Development Program to identified local talent and provide them with the necessary skills and conditioning to reach their potential. He will also provide skills and guidance to all players 15 years and above in an intensive offseason development program beginning in October as well as providing ongoing support to all WABL coaches for the upcoming season. This will involve assistance in planning training sessions, establishing short term and season long goals and player / parent management.

Williams, who has played or coached basketball for 25 years at various levels including State Leagues in WA and NSW and collegiate levels in the US, is currently the coach of the EP Eagles U/18-1 Men’s who made it through to the preliminary finals.

Mr Nazzari said, “Adam Forde brings a wealth of experience to our club”. Forde was the Head Coach of the Rockingham Flames SBL team in 2010, and also undertook coaching positions from different levels from U14’s to SBL division. Adam is a current NCAS Level II accredited basketball coach with the intention to complete a Level 1 presenter’s course through BWA. Mr Forde - who is a Registered Fitness Instructor with level 3 & 4 Certification has an exciting history as a player, having had success in the ABA and also at Jamestown Community College in New York.

Forde will focus on the development of all interested players from ages 10 to 15, with an offseason program starting in October and continuing through the 2011 WABL season. He has also agreed to be Assistant Coach to Anthony Fletcher for the 2011 WSBL team.

Development programs for all players will be held at Morley Recreation Centre beginning on the 24th October between 9-11am, with all coaches encouraged to come and be involved.