Braintree Basketball Club

Coaches

The club is fortunate to have committed and experienced coaches for each age group. Each person brings their own unique style and personality to the training sessions but they are all united by the ethos of the club. Read below for a little information on each member.

Coaches

U9 Mixed Coach

Hannah Cook

I bring experience from both Football and Basketball. In Basketball, I competed at Division 1 National League Level with Worcester Wolves, gaining valuable experience in player development, teamwork and high-performance sport.

As Coach of the U9’s team, my focus is on creating fun, positive and a supportive environment where young players can develop strong fundamental skills, building confidence and enjoying the game! My coaching philosophy centres on effort, teamwork, respect and helping every player reach their potential.

U11 Mixed Coach

Bex Swann

U14 Boy’s Coach

Matthew Wilson

U14/U16 Girl’s Coach

Alisha Palmer

U16/U18 Boy’s Coach

Cian Walpole

I’m excited to join the Braintree Blue Devils as a youth basketball coach.
I played basketball throughout school, including a run in the regional finals, and have coached multiple sports as part of my job.
I’m looking forward to this new challenge of developing young basketball players.

My coaching style emphasizes clear instructions so players know exactly what is expected, while encouraging open two-way communication.
I pride myself on building strong relationships with players and creating a supportive environment where they feel valued and motivated to grow.

SENIOR Women’s Coach

Matthew Wilson

SENIOR Men’s Coach

Reefe Ellis

Other Volunteers

Chairperson

Matthew Wilson

I've been playing basketball for just under 10 years. Throughout that time, the sport has taught me valuable lessons both on and off the court. I'm excited to join Braintree Basketball Club as Chairman, bringing everything I've learned into helping the club continue to grow.

I'm passionate about developing the club and inspiring the younger generation to get involved in a sport that teaches teamwork, discipline, confidence and life skills that go far beyond basketball.

I'm a dedicated and driven person who is always focused on improving not only myself, but everyone around me. I'm excited for what the future holds and look forward to helping lead the club towards a strong and successful future

Vice Chairperson

Alisha Palmer

Alisha Palmer

Alisha has been with the club since 2013. She has played in our women's team since then. She has also been one of our coaches since 2018 and is currently our girls  coach. She is also vice chairperson of the club.

She works as a security officer in aviation and loves spending her free time with friends and family.

Club Welfare Officer

Sally dePol

If you need to contact me regarding a welfare or safeguarding issue, my email is [email protected].

Treasurer

Emma Barthram

Emma Barthram

Emma has been involved with club since it was created in 2012 when her son joined and has been the treasurer since 2017 and club admin for Basketball England. Emma lives in Braintree with her two children and works as a finance administrator.

Club Secretaries

Bex Swann/ Sarah Crockett

Bex has been involved in the club for over 10 years now, as a player, coach and now behind the scenes!

Fundraising Officer

Kelly Phillips

Stock Manager

Holly Flint