Denise Coughlan - General Manager

Appointed in 2022 Denise had already spent years volunteering for Nelson Basketball and has seen the landscape and the needs of the sport change with the times. With a background in accounting she brings experience in finance that can be applied to the running of basketball in a practical way. The achievement she is most proud of in her tenure thus far is getting a new roof on Jack Robins.

Denise takes a hands on approach to her role, supporting the Nelson Basketball staff. She is a big believer in team work and you will often times see her floor controlling at competitions.

Sam Berkett - Operations Manager

Sam grew up in Golden Bay and attended Nelson College before heading off to University in Christchurch. He returned to Nelson with a bachelor in sports coaching which he has been applying ever since. 

Arguably the king of HORSE, Sam is tasked with co-ordinating all the weekly competitions year round. His passion lies in coaching, and even with him busy defending his title and doing draws he still manages to find time to continue learning new coacing techniques.

Female and Referee Development Officer

Brooke Lal

Some of you may remember Brooke from a few years ago when she was working for us as the Operations Officer.  Brooke spent two seasons in that position before heading off to have a family.  Five years and three children later we are pleased to have her back to help support and develop our referees and female participation.  This is a reasonably new position for us at Nelson Basketball but one that has made a huge difference to our referees as well as female development and participation.  This is still a trial role due to funding restraints but this has not held her back in her efforts and enthusiasm.  Brooke has been with us since July 2023.

Brooke's experience and understanding of the needs of our referees and female members has been a real asset to the position.