The Small family help out in many ways around the basketball stadium. This month Ian Small spoke to us about their involvement.

When and how did you get involved with Willetton Basketball?

I used to play at Willetton before the stadium was even built, so that was way back. Peta used to play SBL here as well. We have always been involved in basketball around the place, mostly Willetton, but I really started to get involved with volunteering when our children, Dylan and Casey started playing about 5 years ago.

What are your activities and what do they involve (around Willetton)?

I am the SBL operations manager, the assistant manager for my daughter's under 16/2  WABL team, and manager for my son's under 18/2 WABL team. I help set up and pack down SBL nights, manage the crowd and any odd jobs that need doing. The kids come and help me with all of that stuff too. My wife Peta is the WABL administrator and does a lot of work behind the scenes for that. I don't think I would be able to do her job!

What motivates you to stay involved? 

The kids and wife are involved so that is my main motivation. I think we all do it to help each other out and help the club grow. I believe that it is really important to give something back if you are able.

Of what contribution or achievement are you most proud?

I don't really have anything because that is not why I am involved. It's great to be recognised but I don't do it for the accolades. If something needs doing then I put my hand up to do it and help others out.

What do you hope the organization will achieve in the near future? Long term? 

I hope that the club can continue to grow and be successful in the way it has been. The possible expansion is something that really excites us all I think.

Does anyone in your life play a role in supporting your involvement? Providing Inspiration?

Because the whole family is involved we all support each other.

Do you have an anecdote about this organisation that really moved you?

Something that I'll never forget is when Peta returned to Willetton after being at some other clubs for a few years. We were at a Tigers get together and a well regarded Willetton employee shook Peta's hand and said "Welcome home". It meant a lot and since then it really has felt like home for us.

What other organisations or causes do you support?

We are quite big on volunteering and helping out where we can. I have volunteered at Telethon for about 20 years, and also the Hopman Cup for around 16 years.

Do you have a message to share?

If there is something that you think you can help out with, put your hand up. There are so many volunteers behind the scenes here that no one knows about, but we can always use more.

Ian Small on behalf of the Small family