By BACT Media Unit – 23 September 2024

Basketball ACT is pleased to announce the coaching appointments for the 2025 U20 Territory Teams, who will compete at the Footlocker U20 National Championships, scheduled for 27 January – 2 February 2025 at Ballarat, Victoria.

After an extensive search, Basketball ACT would like to congratulate the following:

  • Lizzy Tonks – Head Coach – ACT U20 Women;
  • Reece Kaye – Head Coach – ACT U20 Men.

With both coaches recently retiring from playing at the NBL1 level, the chance to guide and support the next generation of talent coming through the ACT, was a major appeal for Lizzy in her first representative head coaching appointment, and Reece, who returns for his 2nd campaign with the Under 20 Men’s team.

“Having been a player myself, I have a unique advantage in what it’s like to be in the player’s shoes and understanding the challenges they may face. This will help me connect with the players on a deeper level.  As a coach, my focus has shifted to seeing the bigger picture—how individual actions impact team success, providing structure, and supporting players. Now, I can bring a more strategic approach that emphasises long-term development and building a strong team dynamic,” said Tonks.

When asked about the appointment, Tonks went on to say, “I’m really looking forward to the challenge of stepping into a leadership role and guiding Basketball ACT’s U20 program. It’s exciting to bring a fresh perspective and help develop the next generation of talent. What I’m most excited about is mentoring young players and creating a fun, supportive environment where they can grow both as athletes and as individuals.” Adding to the experience of the coaching team for the U20 Women’s program will be fellow Canberra National Abbie Ketels who will step into the Assistant Coach role.

For Kaye, the opportunity to combine lessons from his debut U20’s campaign as Head Coach, combined with another year in charge of the Canberra Gunners Academy, has him focussed on implementing lessons learnt. “Over the last few seasons as a Head Coach, I’ve learnt that sometimes things don’t go as they have to, some things just go.  Meaning that we should not worry about things outside of our control, as we will only be measured on how hard we work and the improvements we show as a team.”

When asked about the type of players he is looking for the 2025 U20’s campaign, Coach Kaye went on to say, “We are looking for great teammates, natural hard-workers and tough bastards. If that is our baseline, good things are ahead.”

Joining Kaye on the sidelines for 2025 will be returning Assistant Coach, James Toohey and first time Assistant/Development Coach, Mark McKenzie.  When speaking about their appointments, Toohey said he was excited to how players will grow their skills on-, saying “I can’t wait to see how much the boys improve throughout the program.”, while McKenzie is excited about the opportunity to help shape the development of the squad, “This is my first U20s tournament, and I’m really excited. I’m really looking forward to helping develop the group, their identity, and showcasing what ACT players are capable of at that level.”

Congratulations to all appointees.