About Us
Mission Statement
The Northern Districts Basketball Association exists to provide families on the north side of Brisbane with opportunities to grow and develop their basketball skills in a fun and safe environment. Our desire is to enable all kids to participate in community sport through affordable and fair programs and by fostering a club model where both boys and girls can play alongside their families and train locally.
Core Values
- Integrity
- Collaboration
- Inclusiveness
- Honour
- Consideration
- Fair Play
- Affordability and Generosity
- Fairness
NDBA BOARD
Michael "Rocky" O'Neill
President
Rocky has been involved in many aspects of basketball , playing at NBL1 level for many years and now turning his passion to the coaching sphere. He has overseen the Brisbane Outer School League (BOSL) Basketball, with a membership of over 1000 amazing school based players, for many years and is passionate about providing opportunities for all kids to learn and grow in sport but more importantly in character and life. Rocky is joined by his wife Michaela who also has a rich basketball history. Her father was an original Brisbane Bullet and she played at both State Representative and NBL1 level as did many of her family. She will be joining the ranks as a passionate coach eager to see girls enjoy the beauty of the sport.
Robert has been involved in basketball for 50 years in the capacity of player (multiple state teams and an inaugural Brisbane Bullet), coach (Brisbane WNBL) & administrator (Vice-President of BBI 8 years). Robert is a man of service & was recognized with a ‘lifetime’ membership of Lang Park & Brisbane Basketball. He has a passion and love for the game of basketball that is shared by his whole family. His working career has been spent in the finance industry in areas of Risk, Underwriting, Audit and Operations. Recently, Rob has dedicated his time to coaching & coach development with the Northside Crusaders, helping this club’s juniors grow into good players but better humans.
Robert Wood
Vice - President
Todd has 3 talented daughters who all play basketball and he is a passionate and caring coach. Todd alongside his wife Austin Parrish were foundational in the rejuvenation of Goondiwindi basketball and are passionate about grassroots basketball. Austin is from a multi generational basketball family– playing NZ state level herself and also cheering on her sister who still plays in the semi-professional league. Todd brings his accountancy skills and wisdom to the board from his day job and Austin most recently was NGBL age Co-ordinator at the Northside Wizards. Together they bring a wealth of wisdom to help shape the future and culture of NDBA. This wonderful couple are passionate about seeing a higher level of participation of females and will focus on developing girls through NDBA.
Todd Parrish
Treasurer
Kat Howell
Secretary
Kat brings a strong background in administration to her role as Secretary of the NDBA. As a dedicated parent of two enthusiastic basketball players, she has spent countless hours courtside, managing teams and supporting grassroots basketball.
Her involvement with basketball began as the Registrar of the Crusaders Basketball Club. When the NDBA was established, Kat accepted the role of Secretary, leveraging her administrative expertise to help shape and strengthen the Association. She is passionate about creating safe and supportive environments where players of all levels can develop their skills and love for the game.
Stephen Dring
Committee Member
Stephen brings a wealth of experience in basketball, both as a player and coach, along with strong academic and professional credentials. A former starting point guard for the Australian National Collegiate champions in 1987, Stephen also played for the Frankston Bears in the NBL from 1984 to 1985.
Transitioning into coaching, Stephen has held key leadership roles, including Coaching Coordinator and Head Coach for the Diamond Valley Basketball Association, Assistant Coach for the Victorian Metro U18 boys’ state team, and Head Coach for the Division 1 Diamond Valley senior women’s team.
Beyond basketball, Stephen holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Human Movement and an LLB (Hons). Stephen’s extensive experience in sports, leadership, and governance makes him an invaluable member of the board.
Basketball has been an influential part of Lynelle’s life since she was a small child as a representative player, and now as a coach. With a father who represented Queensland and was heavily involved in the establishment of the Brisbane Bullets in their 80s ‘hey days,’ and a mother who is in the Queensland Basketball Hall of Fame, it’s safe to say that basketball is in her blood and now it flows through her children’s veins. Teaching, coaching, helping provide a safe, fun, ethical, and integrous sporting environment for all children and families is what drives her.
Lynelle Woodrow
Commitee Member
Sharon, ‘Soso’ Casey has a passion for seeing kids succeed in areas they are passionate about, particularly basketball. Her journey in the sport began in 2018 when her son joined the Northside Crusaders. Over the years, she has coached and managed multiple teams and has supported the Crusaders. Soso transitioned to coaching at Mueller College and currently coaches at Villanova College. Often, Soso says she is “just a basketball mum,” but she brings much more to the table and cares for the parents of the players as much as she does the players themselves. She played a foundational role in establishing the Manta Rays Basketball Club at Eastside Knights. Soso and her son also operate 4th Quarter Basketball, which competes in AAU tournaments. Soso focuses on organising and coordinating basketball programs and is committed to fostering a supportive sports community.
Sharon Casey
Committee Member
Bonita, is a dedicated mother of four ranging in age from 22 to 6, with three of her children having a deep passion for basketball. Her contributions as a volunteer with the Crusaders Club have been invaluable, particularly in Social Media Management and Team Management. Bonita embodies the philosophy of “Rising by lifting others,” bringing a calm and thoughtful approach to her work. Her commitment to nurturing young athletes and helping them achieve their potential makes her an inspiring addition to the team, as she supports and encourages them to excel and grow together in their basketball journey.
sports community.
Bonita Craze
Committee Member
REFEREE COORDINATOR
JUNIOR DELEGATES
The Junior Delegate program offers senior players a meaningful leadership opportunity within the NDBA. Serving as a vital link between the association and its players, junior delegates represent the voices of athletes and their families, ensuring diverse perspectives are considered in decision-making processes. They also advocate for player interests at the highest levels of the organisation.
Each year, one male and one female delegate will be elected to serve in this role.
To express interest or nominate a candidate, please contact us at president@ndbasketball.com.
Get in Touch
Have any questions? We are always open to talk about opportunities to join Northern Districts Basketball Association. Let us know how we can help you by sending us a message.
Email: info@ndbasketball.com.au