GET TO KNOW US
Ruth Fettes
I first started playing basketball at secondary school when I was 13. I had moved from the Midlands to Bracknell and found myself at a large, rough school. I had no friends and was bullied for my accent. I used to go to the sports hall every break and lunch to play basketball. My form tutor, who was also a PE teacher, encouraged me as he played basketball too. At that time, there was a pro team in Bracknell, The Bracknell Tigers, and I started watching them with my brother.
I played for the school and County team and continued at university. I got into coaching 17 years ago when my youngest, Ben, was about 3. I was working as Director of Development for a professional basketball team, and my two eldest children wanted to play, so I started coaching the U10s.
In 2010, I set up the Bracknell Cobras to create a safe, welcoming space for anyone from any background or ability to try basketball.
Now, I coach U8s, walking basketball, after-school clubs, and promotional sessions, helping people discover the joy of basketball, just like I did when I first picked up the ball.
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Ben Fettes
I am the Men’s Programme General Manager at the club and coach Cobras Kai, our Division 3 Wessex Men’s team. My basketball journey began with the Cobras when my mum founded the club in 2010. I was 7 years old at the first session and have been part of the club ever since. I played National League basketball for the Cobras from ages 9 to 17 before joining the men’s team and later becoming General Manager.
Currently, I am studying Football Coaching and Management at UCFB Wembley University. My course has enhanced my coaching skills, which I apply to my role at the Cobras. While I aim to build a career in football, I remain passionate about basketball and know I’ll always be connected to the Cobras in some way.
Looking ahead, my goal is to continue developing the men’s programme. Currently, we have two teams, and I aim to grow this while ensuring both teams achieve strong performances in their respective leagues. The Cobras have been an integral part of my life, and I’m excited to contribute to their success and future growth.
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Marc Rose
I played some basketball in school, but rugby was always my main sport. Unfortunately, injuries forced me to stop playing rugby. Years later, a couple of guys from the gym where I work asked if I’d like to try basketball again. In 2017, the Bracknell Cobras men’s team was reborn, and I became one of the 12 players. Around the same time, my eldest son started training with the U10s, even though he was only 5 at the time.
It didn’t take long for my rugby-worn body to give up. After a couple of enjoyable years playing for the Cobras, injuries once again forced me to stop. During that time, my son Jake had progressed significantly and was showing real passion for basketball. While sitting on the sidelines watching him train, I realized it would be a waste not to use my skills from my degree in sports coaching and my career in fitness and personal training to help out.
The rest is history. I now enjoy my role as a helper and bench personnel, supporting the team where I can while leaving the technical coaching to the main coaches. It’s rewarding to contribute and stay connected to the sport.
Joe Stollery
I grew up watching my dad, Coach Richard, play basketball at Camberley, which sparked my passion for the sport. Following in his footsteps, I started playing competitively and joined the Guildford Heat U16 and U18 National League teams. During my time there, I had the privilege of learning under some incredible coaches who not only improved my skills but also inspired me to consider coaching one day.
One of the standout moments of my basketball journey was the friendships I built while playing for Guildford. These bonds were as rewarding as the competition itself. Another highlight was winning the Players’ Player award, a recognition that meant a lot to me because it came from my teammates, reflecting their respect and camaraderie.
Now, I’m excited to bring my experience and passion to the Cobras. Joining the team is a fantastic opportunity, and I look forward to contributing both on and off the court. Basketball has always been a huge part of my life, and I’m eager to continue growing within the sport while supporting and inspiring others, just as my coaches and teammates once inspired me.
Arunas Gulbinas
I will be helping to coach the U14 team, and I’m excited to begin this new chapter in my basketball journey. Coming from Lithuania, basketball has always been a big part of my life. Back home, it’s more than just a sport—it’s a way of life. I started playing from a young age because basketball was everywhere, and everyone was talking about it. You didn’t really have a choice but to get involved, and I quickly fell in love with the game.
Although I don’t have a professional playing background or formal basketball qualifications, my passion for the sport runs deep. Basketball has been my main focus and interest for as long as I can remember, and I’ve spent years developing my understanding of the game.
This is my first coaching role, and I’m really looking forward to the opportunity to share my enthusiasm for basketball with the U14 team. Coaching is a new challenge for me, but I’m eager to learn and grow alongside the players. I’m excited to contribute to their development, both as athletes and as individuals, while building a positive and supportive team environment.
Nigel Crump
My basketball journey began at 8 years old when I watched a finals game on TV and thought, "This is a game I want to play!" I was captivated by the speed and intensity of the game—how you can’t slow down. I begged my parents to let me try, and they signed me up for lessons at Bracknell Sports Centre, where I had the privilege of learning from Bracknell Tigers legend Peter Scantlebury. After a year of training, I joined the Tigers’ junior teams and played there until U17s coached by Andy Lewington, improving my skills along the way.
I took a break from basketball to focus on college but returned to the game at 20, playing in the Wessex League for Camberley. Later, I joined the Aztecs before moving on to help form the Cobras Men’s team. It wasn’t always easy, but I’m proud of how far we’ve come. I love the group of guys we have now, and being part of this team has been incredibly rewarding.
Though I’m nearing the end of my playing days, I still give everything I have on the court. After 35 years of playing basketball, my passion for the game remains as strong as ever.
Andy Lewington
I am currently working with the Bracknell Cobras U16 women’s team and have been an active coach in the Bracknell area for over 30 years. During this time, I’ve had the privilege of coaching at the National League level across all junior age groups, as well as with men’s and women’s teams.
I was the original Head Coach of the Bracknell Cobras, helping Ruth establish the club when it was founded in 2010. It was an exciting time, but my overseas work commitments required me to step away from coaching for several years. Fortunately, I was able to return to the club in 2022, and it’s been fantastic to reconnect with the team and the sport I love.
Outside of basketball, I work for the London Fire Brigade, where I lead the Training Design Function. It’s a challenging and rewarding role that keeps me on my toes. When I’m not working or coaching, you’ll likely find me on the golf course, trying to perfect my swing, or supporting my wife in her equestrian pursuits.
Coaching has always been a passion of mine, and I’m proud to continue contributing to the growth and success of the Cobras.
Alex Halmkam
My basketball journey began at 11 years old when I joined an afterschool club. From there, I went on to play National League basketball from U14 through U18. During this time, I was fortunate to compete in what is now known as ASPIRE and represented the South England team in the 2014 Regional Tournament. I also spent two years playing academy basketball at Henley College, which helped refine my skills and deepen my love for the game.
My coaching journey started at just 15, when I volunteered to coach U10s on Saturday mornings. It was a great experience that sparked my passion for teaching the game. In 2020, I joined the Bracknell Cobras as a coach, and I’m proud to now coach for the club full-time.
In terms of qualifications, I hold a Level 2 Coaching certification and a Level 3 Table Official qualification, which have equipped me to contribute both on and off the court.
Outside of basketball, I’m a big movie enthusiast and love going to the cinema. My favorite basketball movie is Coach Carter, as it perfectly captures the values of teamwork and perseverance that I strive to bring to my coaching.
Richard Stollery
I’m an experienced coach with a background in coaching junior, senior, men’s, and women’s teams at both local and national levels. My basketball journey began when I represented Leicestershire while at university, and I also played in the National League for the Camberley Eagles.
Throughout my coaching career, I’ve had the privilege of coaching my daughter, Alex, who represented the Reading Rockets, and my son, Joe, while coaching the Guildford Heat U16 and U18 teams. Joe has since become one of our qualified Cobras coaches, which has been a proud moment for me.
It’s also a family affair in our coaching staff, as my son-in-law, Andy Blakeway, has played at national level, including with Brixton Topcats, and is now also a qualified Cobras coach. Having the chance to coach alongside my family and watch them develop their passion for basketball has been incredibly fulfilling.
Basketball has not only shaped my life but also brought our family closer together. I’m proud to see the next generation of players and coaches emerge within our family, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to the sport I love. It’s a family affair!
Stephie Davis
Our daughter developed a sudden urge to try basketball in 2020, and what began as a curiosity quickly became a roaring passion. Since joining Cobras, she has thrived on the court, and I found myself drawn to a sport I knew little about. It turns out that basketball runs in the family - my dad played at school, for the Tameside County Team, and for the Greater Manchester Police in 1981-82. Today, our daughter proudly plays under her Grandad’s no. 10.
Watching her play, grow, and embrace the positive atmosphere created by Ruth and the club inspired me to get more involved. After spending over 10 years in corporate compliance, I decided to leave that behind and join the Cobras team in April 2022.
Since then, I’ve assisted with coaching the U8s & TM for U12 Mixed NL team 23-24. I’ve even started playing basketball myself in the walking basketball sessions when I have the chance. Embracing the “Basketball Mum” role, I’m proud to support the club in every way I can, including sponsoring it. It’s been an incredible journey, and I look forward to continuing to be part of this amazing basketball community.
Sheldon Johnson-Smith
Hello, I’m Coach Sheldon, and I coach the Bracknell Cobras D3 Men’s team and U16s, as well as serving as Head of Basketball for Slough Cobras. My basketball journey began at Bacons College when I was 10, where I was introduced to basketball through Greenhouse Sports. The coaching I received not only helped me develop as a player but also shaped my life, teaching me valuable life lessons that I still apply today. Witnessing the impact it had on me is the driving force behind my desire to give back to the sport.
After Bacons, I played under Predrag Krneta and later participated in exhibitions and trials across France, Belgium, and Germany. I also gained experience as a referee and table official, working with teams ranging from U12s to Division 1 men’s basketball. My management experience in the supermarket industry helped me develop strong teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership skills, which I applied to coaching.
I transitioned to coaching full-time, leading the Goldsmiths University Women’s team to a remarkable turnaround, improving from a 1-9 record to finishing second with a 7-3 record. I’ve also worked with various schools and clubs, most recently leading Goldsmiths University’s men’s team to an undefeated conference season in 2021-22. I’m excited to be part of the Cobras family!
Jeff Skinner
I’ve been involved in basketball in and around Bracknell since 1966 when I first started learning the game at Ranelagh. Over the years, I’ve taken on many roles as a player, coach, and administrator. Currently, I serve as the volunteer chairman for the South Region at Basketball England and as the volunteer treasurer for the Cobras for the past seven years. Basketball has been a significant part of my life, and I believe it’s a fantastic sport for children and adults alike, fostering lasting friendships and skills.
I was drawn to the Cobras because Ruth’s approach aligns with my own values. The club is committed to offering opportunities for as many people as possible to play basketball, regardless of personal circumstances or ability. The focus is not only on playing the game but also on learning how to be a part of a team, appreciating what you have, and eventually giving back to the community.
Now, in my retirement, I find great satisfaction in contributing to something so valuable to the local community. It’s been rewarding to see the club thrive, and I’m proud to be part of an organization that positively impacts the lives of so many.
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Andy Blakeway
I’m an assistant coach for the Cobras U16 NL II team. My basketball journey began in Nottingham, where I played age group National League basketball for Notts NOVA. I then went on to play in the BUCS Premier League and National League Division 2 with Birmingham University. After graduating, I moved to London and played in NL Division 2 for Brixton Topcats.
I’m a Level 1 qualified coach and a Level 2 table official. While I’m relatively new to coaching, I bring a wealth of experience as a player, having played at various levels across different teams. I’m excited to transition into coaching and look forward to sharing the knowledge I’ve gained throughout my basketball journey with the kids at Cobras.
Coaching has already proven to be a rewarding challenge. I’m eager to pass on not just basketball skills, but also the lessons I’ve learned about teamwork, dedication, and perseverance. At the same time, I’m excited to continue learning and growing as a coach. I believe that every practice is an opportunity to improve, and I look forward to helping the next generation of players develop both on and off the court.
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Michaela Tucker-Blackford
I started playing basketball at the age of 15 for Solent Ladies and quickly fell in love with the game. I played at the National League level and for the South England juniors. My basketball journey took me to Eau Claire University in the USA, where I played for the Bluegolds. After suffering an ACL injury, I transitioned into coaching, working with teams such as London Towers, Trailblazers, and Invictus. I also served as the Head Academy Coach at Bournemouth and Southampton Universities, where I led both teams to win all four titles.
Recently, I spent time living in Madrid and Slovakia, where I coached both the U14 and U18 boys and girls teams, achieving back-to-back season wins for the past three years. Coaching has always been a family affair for me—I’ve had the pleasure of coaching both of my daughters. My oldest played for England and GB, while my youngest currently plays in Slovakia.
Throughout my coaching career, I’ve been passionate about developing players and helping them grow, both on and off the court. I’m excited to bring my experience and love for the game to new coaching opportunities and continue inspiring the next generation of players.
Luca Zizzi
I’m Luca Zizzi, and I’m currently in sixth form at Garth Hill College. I play for the Cobras Academy team and am passionate about basketball. I started playing in 2021 and quickly fell in love with the sport. After one year playing for the U14 National League team, I’m now in my second year with the U16 NL team. While I’m not a pro yet, I’m definitely working towards it!
In addition to playing, I coach the U12 CVL team and have previously coached the U10s. I’m also working towards my Level 1 Coaching qualification, having already earned my Level 1 Table Official and Referee Official certifications.
Outside of basketball, I’m interested in law and politics, and I enjoy swimming and skiing.
As a coach, I aim to make learning basketball fun while also teaching valuable life skills. I believe in creating a positive environment where players can not only improve their basketball skills but also grow as individuals. I try to bring energy and enthusiasm to every session, helping players build both their technical abilities and confidence. Coaching allows me to pass on my passion for the game and encourage others to enjoy it as much as I do.