Life membership for Jess

CAMPERDOWN Basketball Association stalwart Jess Van Den Eynde has been recognised for her ongoing commitment with a life membership.

Jess first took to the Camperdown courts in 1995, playing in what was then known as the midgets competition.

She moved to Melbourne in 2007 to attend university but returned to Camperdown about four years later and joined the association’s committee for season 2011-2012.

“Basketball has always been in my blood; for as long as I can remember my mum Denise was always on the committee and I just loved to play,” Jess said.

“I took on the role of vice-president not long after returning home and in 2014 stepped up as president for two seasons.”

A move to Port Hedland for work in 2017 took Jess away from the courts, but it was only temporary – she returned just a few years later and resumed the role of president for 2021, 22 and 2023.

“While I was away there was no women’s competition in Camperdown so that was one of my main goals when I returned; to see a women’s competition back up and running.

“And we managed to do just that, and it has continued ever since which is exciting.”

Now the proud mother of 15-month old Bailey – and with a second child due in July – Jess plans to take a temporary ‘leave’ from the courts this upcoming season; but she no doubt will have the “itch to return” soon after.

“I probably won’t play next season but I’ll still be keen to perhaps do some umpiring, which I’ve done in the past and really enjoyed,” Jess said.

“Helping out with the whistle gives me the chance to give something back to the association that gave me so much as a child and as an adult.”

During her time with the association, Jess has coached all grades of midgets, juniors and seniors, has umpired several games and as umpire coordinator played a key role in the promotion of the ‘green shirts’ program.

Jess was also a driving force behind the sponsored singlets that are now proudly worn by teams.

“I’m extremely grateful for the time and effort Jess has put into this association, both on and off the court,” current president Grant Fleming said.

“The association thanks her for everything that she has contributed over the last 14 years (when she first started on the committee).”