Basketball ACT (‘BACT’) has recently announced the Head Coaches for a number of it’s 2017 State Representative Programs. You can find comments on each appointment from BACT Head of High Performance and Coaching Phil Brown below.

Under 20 Men (12-18 February 2017 – Bendigo, Victoria)

Head Coach: Debbie Cook

“As one of the ACT’s most experienced coaches, Debbie brings a wealth of experience over many years including being the Head Coach the past two years for the ACT Under 18 Men and assisting with the Capitals Academy SEABL Program.”

Ivor Burge Men (12-18 February 2017 – Bendigo, Victoria)

Head Coach: James McGill

“James’ commitment, on and off the basketball court, to the Ivor Burge Program is to be commended and he is one of ACT’s longest serving representative coaches. The Ivor Burge Men’s Team has made significant progress over the past few years under James’ leadership and BACT is excited to have James back in charge of the Ivor Burge Men.”

Ivor Burge Women (12-18 February 2017 – Bendigo, Victoria)

Head Coach: Sarah Skidmore

“Following several years hiatus, BACT has committed to resurrecting the Ivor Burge Women’s Program and Sarah’s appointment to lead this program signals the start of a new era in the Program. Sarah brings previous relevant experience with the NSW Ivor Burge Men’s Program.”

Under 18 Men (8-15 April 2017 – Townsville, Queensland)

Head Coach: Dan Jackson

“Former NBL and Canberra Gunners SEABL player Dan Jackson takes up his first Head Coaching role in the ACT following two successful years assisting Debbie Cook in the Under 18 Men’s State Program. Dan’s past playing experience and understanding of high performance will greatly benefit the Under 18 Men in 2017.”

Under 18 Women (8-15 April 2017 – Townsville, Queensland)

Head Coach: Paula Jansen

“After successfully guiding our Under 14 Girls Development Program for several years, ACT veteran coach Paula Jansen will take up the new challenge to lead one of the ACT’s most talented junior programs when she heads the Under 18 Women’s teams in 2017. Paula’s experience in developing players and producing winning teams will continue to be an incredible asset to the Women’s High Performance programs.”

Under 16 Men (8-15 July 2017 – Joondalup, Western Australia)

Head Coach: Barry Barnes

“Veteran and Basketball Australia Hall of Fame Coach Barry Barnes moves from the ACT Development Program to the U16 State Boys Program, and his vast experience and knowledge will be a significant benefit to the young men and further enhance the BACT high performance pathway.”

Under 16 Women (8-15 July 2017 – Joondalup, Western Australia)

Head Coach: Shane Wallace

“Following his first year as a Head Coach within the ACT High Performance programs Shane will continue to play a pivotal role with the Under 16 Women’s State Program and continuing to develop and mentor Canberra’s most promising young female players.”

Under 14 Boys Development Program (Club Championship host/dates to be advised)

Head Coach: Brad Barnes

“Former Gunners SEABL Head Coach Brad Barnes return”s to the BACT high performance programs, taking over the U14 Boys Development Program vacated by his father, Barry. Brad is currently supporting the Marist Basketball Program, and his considerable experience will be valuable in this critical U14 age group.”

Under 14 Girls Development Program (Club Championship host/dates to be advised)

Head Coach: Sean Barnett

“Sean Barnett transitions up to the U14 Girls Development Program, after two years leading the U12 Girls. Sean has experience across U12, U14 and U18 Women’s State Programs, and is establishing himself as a quality junior representative coach within the ACT high performance pathways.”

Under 12 Boys Development Program

Head Coach: Bruce Minerds

“Another highly experience coach returns to the ACT high perofrmance programs after several years coaching at the Club level. As a former Gunners SEABL Head and Assistant Coach, Bruce will bring enthusiasm and a positive approach in leading the U12 Girls Program.”

Under 12 Girls Development Program

Head Coach: Kelly Grandin

“Kelly has been coaching in the Ginninderra Rats Junior Girls Program for many years, helping that program develop into arguably the strongest girls club program in the ACT. Kelly has previous coaching experience in the Canberra U14 and U12 Girls Development and now steps up to the Head Coach role and her experience and teaching capabilities will be a great asset to the young girls the ACT High Performance Program.”


BACT is seeking Expressions of Interest for Assistant Coaches for the 2017 Programs. Please contact Phil Brown for more information.