With the population of the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale growing, Byford residents Trevor Holmes and Maryann Ellis said they saw a need to cater to the increased number of residents in the area, particularly when it came to sport.
The couple said they recognised the shire is becoming increasingly multicultural and hoped to bring the community together by forming the Byford Basketball Association.
The organisation held its first inaugural meeting at the Byford and Districts Country Club on June 6, forming a committee with the aim of setting up an under 10s team in the coming weeks.
Mr Holmes said he moved with his partner Ms Ellis from Victoria 12 months ago.
“We’ve seen so many families from different backgrounds here,” he said.
“It’s great and we just wanted to do something for the community.”
Between the two of them, Mr Holmes and Ms Ellis share 50 years of basketball experience.
They said it felt right to give back to the community and Mr Holmes said he identified a need for a basketball association in Byford.
“There is no opportunity for basketball in the shire at the moment,” he said.
“Kids have to go down to either Rockingham or Cockburn which is the closest place.”
Ms Ellis said sport was a great activity to bring people together.
“It doesn’t matter if you’re good at it or not,” she said.
“Just have a go and have fun.
“It also teaches kids skills such as sportsmanship, responsibility and it will help forge strong community bonds and friendship.”
Byford resident Flo McLeod attended the meeting with her two children and said her eight-year-old son loved basketball.
“This is a great idea,” she said.
“I’ve gotten to know Trevor and he’s great with the kids.
“It’s not about being the best but enjoying yourself and I really hope this takes off.”
The next meeting will be held on June 20 at the Byford and Districts Country Club at 7pm.
For more information contact Trevor Holmes on 0407 948 879.
