Bloodlines interview: Trudy Pearce

How did you get involved in basketball?

My first involvement was through playing basketball as a junior over 50 years ago in Tasmania – making junior age club representative sides from U/12 upwards and state representation at U/16 and U/18 level, also playing for the local women’s side. I then reconnected with basketball as a parent of two children/young adults who played locally and represented the state – with me getting involved in team managing, club administration, state and regional basketball governance (local, regional and state), officiating – score table and statistics and assisting with national championships.

With strong encouragement from both my kids and husband – who is part of the basketball folklore in Tasmania, I also was fortunate enough to be appointed as Team Manager for a number of Australian teams - Youth Olympics, Sapphires, Gem and UniRoos for their competitions in World Championships/Cups/Tours and also becoming active in the North West Thunder Club management. I have been active as BTas Board Member for the last 5 years – currently I am the BTas Chair.

 What have been some of your proudest moments from your involvement in the sport?

These range from helping play a role in steering basketball in Tasmania, locally, regionally and at a state; watching my children improve and achieve and in a sport that also builds character and connects (a sport I love); supporting my husband to coach (his lifelong passion -  both with winning and losing); and being appointed as a Team Manager for Australian teams – there is a chill and thrill that occurs when the Australian national anthem is played at World Championships.

How have you seen junior pathways develop over the years in Tasmania?

Currently junior pathways are more coordinated, a greater level of consistency of skill development. There are now more development opportunities with an increased awareness of the intensity that is required to compete more broadly at a higher level.

 Why do you think there is such a strong basketball following/participation in Northern Tasmania?

The geography of the North West has always supported healthy competition; there is also such a strong and rich history of basketball participation -that carries with it a proud legacy; and also a great group of volunteers who have continued to grow the sport.

 What do you think the JackJumpers will do for junior basketballers in Tasmania?

They have built an excitement about basketball at a higher level, kids are wearing the JackJumpers strip and whether bouncing a ball, talking up the players, cheering on at games or on TV, the game has grown and benefited. The JackJumpers culture has also been impactful – respectful but hugely proud about defending our turf. The JackJumpers have also captured the imagination of the basketball public in general (beyond basketball followers) and great to see families coming together to support.

What does it mean to be included as a bloodlines member?

I’m hugely proud to be included as part of this group – the Bloodlines, also JackJumpers – what they represent.  Honoured to be recognised for the significance of my contribution to the sport of basketball (historical and present day).

Well done JackJumpers on recognising those who have come before – Go JackJumpers!