Event in honour of Vince

Trowbridge Basketball League (TBL) held a charity event for Kidney Research UK in honour of Vince Marriott, the original and first club chairman.

Vince was an important person in local youth basketball and shaped so many young people’s lives. Sadly, last year Vince died on April 10.

He was the backbone of the local basketball community, helping with the Bristol Flyers junior program and establishing basketball in the local area. He helped in many other leagues, such as WEBBA, and he holds a special place in so many people’s hearts.

The event, held over April 9-10, raised over £1,000 to his chosen charity Kidney Research UK. Throughout the weekend there were many games.

All three junior matches saw the Trowbridge Hawks take on the Bath Panthers. Everyone had a great time playing with the Panthers winning all three games. Halfway through the day, Bristol Flyers player Corey Samuels gave a talk on his career. One of the things he said about Vince was ‘as a kid he taught me skills that helped develop my playing and career.’

Current club President Adam Storey said: “The legacy we want to continue is based around the youth. Vince was very passionate about youth development so we hope to do more youth games like today and maybe start a Junior League and do junior tournaments.”

Charlie Pecchia won the very first Vince Marriott award and the TBL are going to pay for his level one coaching course. The men’s Vince Marriott MVP went to Hawks player Steve Wallis and the Woman’s Vince Marriott MVP went to Flames player Philly Rose.

The event was a massive success and the TBL are hoping to make this an annual event in honour of Vince and to support his favourite and chosen charity. The Trowbridge Basketball league are always looking for new members so feel free to visit their website or come watch a match.