Thank you, Gary
After more than a decade of service to the Bellarine Peninsula Basketball Association, Gary Thompson has stepped down as President, effective Friday 10 July.
Gary has given over ten years to this Association across a range of roles on the board, and is a life member — recognition of a contribution that has shaped basketball on the Bellarine for a generation of players, coaches, volunteers and families.
His decision comes as the Association prepares for a significant new chapter, with the BSC Extension Project and our forthcoming Strategic Plan set to shape the future of the sport in our region.
In notifying the board, Gary expressed confidence in where the Association is headed.
“This decision has not come easily, but I feel it is now the right time for the BPBA to progress into the future,” Gary said. “I believe the Association is in good hands, with a board, staff and leadership team who will provide the drive and vision needed to grow basketball on the Bellarine. I want to thank everyone I have had the privilege of working alongside.”
General Manager Nick Stamatopoulos thanked Gary on behalf of the BPBA community.
“On behalf of the board, our staff and everyone who plays, coaches and volunteers at this Association, I want to sincerely thank Gary for his commitment and leadership,” Nick said. “Ten years plus on a board is a long time, and Gary gave every one of them to this club and this community. He leaves the Association in a stronger position than he found it, and at a genuinely exciting point in its history. We wish him all the very best.”
Our competitions, programs and day-to-day operations continue as normal. Thank you to our members, clubs, volunteers and partners for your ongoing support.
Current Treasurer Garry Ellis has been appointed by the board to serve as President until our next Annual General Meeting, at which the position will be opened for election.