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Maryborough Basketball Association, located in the Central Goldfields Shire in Victoria, has a rich history dating back to the late fifties. It all began when a group of passionate individuals formed a team and joined the Ballarat Basketball Association. This team, consisting of Neil Thornton, Don Sinclair, John Mason, Jack Hoysted, John Muir, Doug Dellar, and Greg Waters, laid the foundation for basketball in Maryborough.
In 1960, a devastating storm caused significant damage to the area, including the destruction of buildings at the Showgrounds on Gillies St. During the rebuilding process, the late Alf Leech suggested that the new building should include a suitable facility for community groups, replacing the previous storage shed. With the help of government grants and community working bees, the first “Tin Shed” was constructed. This facility, with its concrete floor, became a hub for basketball, Badminton, and Table Tennis under the Maryborough Sporting Bodies.
The Maryborough Amateur Basketball Association was officially formed in 1961, and the first games were played in early 1962. Despite being considered primitive by today's standards, the “Tin Shed” played a crucial role in establishing basketball in Maryborough. In 1963, women entered the competition, and new clubs began to join the association.
Over the years, the Maryborough Basketball Association has grown and evolved. Additional clubs, such as Dunolly Dodgers, Tigers, Avoca/Aztecs Bullets, and an all-female club named Hawks, have joined the association. The association now offers basketball from 'A' grade men's and women's competitions down to under 10, as well as skills training for children as young as four years old.
The association has undergone various changes, including transitioning from playing in Ballarat to constructing the first and second courts in Maryborough. The need for a more modern facility eventually led to the construction of a new stadium in 1986. This new facility included a heated swimming pool, gymnasium, and exercise room, further enhancing the overall experience for members.
Throughout its history, the Maryborough Basketball Association has produced exceptional players, coaches, referees, and administrators. Notable standouts include Noel Pollard and Bob Osborne, who have made significant contributions to both the Maryborough Association and Country Victorian Basketball. Noel even coached the U16 State Girls team, securing a national championship title. Bob has had a distinguished career, serving as the President of the Victorian Country Basketball Council for many years.
More recently, Maryborough Basketballer Matthew Dellavedova has achieved great success, fulfilling his lifelong dream of playing for the Australian Boomers side. Matthew represented Australia at the 2012 London Olympics and played college basketball at St Mary's College of California. He is currently signed with the NBA team Cleveland Cavaliers.
The Maryborough Basketball Association continues to provide opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels to participate in the sport they love. With a strong history, modern facilities, and a dedication to fostering talent, the association is a cornerstone of the basketball community in Central Goldfields Shire.
