The Board of the British Basketball Federation (BBF) has appointed Maurice Watkins CBE to the position of Chair. Watkins is currently Chair of British Swimming and the Rugby League European Federation, a Director of Lancashire County Cricket Club, and is Senior Partner Brabners LLP. He is a member of the BOA National Olympic Committee.
Whilst on the Board of Manchester United Football Club (where he was a Director for 28 years), Watkins was also a Director of Manchester United Basketball Club in the 1980s/early 90’s and was one of the principle architects of the formation of the original English Basketball League.
Watkins is also Chairman of Governors of the Manchester Grammar School and New Islington Free School and Chair of Manchester Foundation Trust Charity. He is also a Council member of Bradford University.
The BBF runs the GB basketball teams under a federated model comprised of the Home Country Associations (HCAs) of England, Scotland and Wales.
Speaking of his appointment, Watkins said: “Basketball is the fastest growing sport in the UK and we have a great deal of potential to change lives and communities, and develop professional GB Basketball athletes who can perform at the highest level. To achieve this, we will work together. I’ve been encouraged by the unified voice of British Basketball and the Home Country Associations.
“Recent events have been challenging for GB Basketball, both in terms of governance and finance. Our first priority is to steady the ship, keep GB players on the floor and to begin to attract new sponsors. I look forward to taking on this challenge in partnership with the team of GB Basketball staff and volunteers who work tirelessly for our sport, and with the associations of England, Scotland and Wales.”
As we begin to shape the new BBF Board, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to Nicky Shaw and Stef Collins for the steadfast commitment and dedication they have shown to the sport throughout recent events, and for being prepared to put the good of British Basketball before all other concerns. We look forward to continuing to work closely with them as we develop our future plans.
