Passing of Coach Brenda Smith: A Loss to Isle of Man Basketball

The Isle of Man Basketball Association is saddened to announce the death of Coach Brenda Smith who passed away on Sunday.

Brenda served as an area development officer for England Basketball and quickly established herself as an integral part of the Manx Basketball Community on moving to the island. Working in the North of the island, Brenda helped establish Manx Youth Games training every Tuesday and supported the development of many players, as well as assisting Junior coaches starting out in support roles. The success of the player programme in the Northern Centre led to the establishment of Eagles Basketball Club who competed in the Senior league for many years and provided a vital avenue for Junior players to establish themselves and gain experience playing against stronger competition.

Brenda also served for a number of years on the Association Committee, serving in various roles including those of Development Officer and Membership Secretary. Strongly advocating for links with England Basketball, she helped to draw up development plans for the association and formalised some of the registration and membership policies – ensuring that all players, coaches and members were properly safeguarded. Through her links with England Basketball, Brenda also ensured that the island was included in the early days of EB’s talent scouting programme – giving opportunities for island players to try-out in front of Senior EB Coaches who came to the island.

The Isle of Man Basketball Association Committee, and wider basketball community, wishes to extend condolences to Brenda’s friends and family on her passing – she will be sadly missed by all involved in basketball on the Isle of Man and her impact will continue to be felt for many years to come.