We’re excited to welcome Mark O’Neill as the new President of Brisbane Basketball. Mark’s a familiar face to many in our community — a coach, referee, volunteer and all-round basketball tragic whose journey with BBI started back in 1985 at Auchenflower Stadium. With a strong background in sports leadership and a genuine passion for the game, Mark brings a wealth of experience and energy to the role. We’re looking forward to working alongside him as we continue building a strong future for our association.
Hello Members,
I would like to take a moment to introduce myself to you as the incoming President of Brisbane Basketball Incorporated.
My name is Mark O’Neill.
I am a husband, father, coach, referee, volunteer, and life-long lover of basketball. I started my basketball journey in 1985 in a school tournament at Auchenflower Stadium, and since then, I have played, coached, refereed, or volunteered at BBI. I took a short break in 1989–1991 when I was fortunate to be a high school and college exchange student in the USA.
Before I talk about my priorities and goals, I would like to take this opportunity to express thanks and commend the work of Mr. Tony Cotter, my predecessor as President.
Tony was a true servant of BBI.
He held the role of President for 10 years and was instrumental in the recovery efforts we see taking shape at Vince Hickey Stadium – our spiritual home – and in ensuring the Association continued to grow and provide opportunities to play this great sport. His hard work, skill, expertise, and steady hand were not only instrumental in ensuring BBI retained its place as one of Queensland’s leading basketball associations but also set a standard for governance, integrity, and passion for the incoming committee.
It is pleasing that the incoming committee brings a strong mix of skills and experience. We are fortunate that Vice President Rod Sengstock, Secretary Trish Hayes, and Treasurer Rod Baker—who was also awarded Life Membership at the AGM—all retain their roles. There are also a host of returning committee members bringing integral continuity, knowledge, and skills. I would also like to welcome Mr. Lee Bowden as a first-time committee member and look forward to his enthusiasm and forthrightness. Ably supported by General Manager Hamish Cain and his team, we look forward to setting a clear path for BBI’s future.
At a committee level, our major focus is the delivery of the upgraded Vince Hickey Stadium. The new design acknowledges the changes in the game, venue, and our community since the original stadium was constructed in 1974 and then expanded to four courts in 1998. Both a rebuilding and modernization project, when completed, it will allow the “Auchendome” to resume its role as the heart of basketball in Brisbane.
My personal goal over the next six months is to take the time to get to know you – our members. Parents, players, coaches, referees, and the myriad of volunteers are the lifeblood of any community organization, especially ours. I have already had the opportunity to visit with some coaches and managers of the Under 8, 10, and 12 teams and look forward to meeting and hearing the views of as many of our community as I can. Our success is tied to your energy, ideas, and support.
If there is anything you would like to contact me about directly, I can be reached at president@brisbanebasketball.com.au.
Thank you for the opportunity to give back to a community and a sport that has given me so much over the years. There are tremendous opportunities ahead, but we can only realize these together.
Regards,
Mark O’Neill
