Photo: Barbara Wheadon during the FIBA World Congress in 2014

QUEENSLAND -- Barbara Wheadon is eager to attend FIBA Oceania's 50th anniversary but before the upcoming event on October 20, FIBA Oceania was able to talk to the former President, regarding her time of service.

Wheadon revealed that she was able to learn about FIBA Oceania when she met FIBA Oceania founder Al Ramsay in the early 1990's.

"I was the Chairperson of the North Shore Events Centre Trust Board, the local basketball and gymnastics club that partnered with FIBA Oceania to raise funds to build a home for their sports," shared Wheadon. "The NSEC provided four courts, purpose hall, and gymnastic center, and that was when I met Al and Steve Smith," she added.

The affable Wheadon was elected to Basketball New Zealand board in 1999 and became the President of the Federation by 2001. She was then appointed as BNZ's representative to the FIBA Oceania Board from 2001-2006 and served as President in 20016-2010.

"It was an honor and my pleasure to govern and help in the growth of FIBA Oceania. I am most proud of being on the FIBA Central Board that took the courage to implement not only a worldwide competition plan but also a new governance structure and the construction of the "House of Basketball in Geneva," shared Wheadon.

Photo: Wheadon with former FIBA President Yvan Mainini 

Wheadon's decorative history with the last region that FIBA gave commission to, shared that despite the challenges she faced with her post, it was a very fulfilling job.

"There are many small island countries scattered around the Pacific, providing them with basic equipment, support programs, and resources the challenge," said Wheadon.

"But those were my fondest memories. My visits to our smaller member federations to attend the youth events," she added.

The New Zealand native commended the state and current status FIBA Oceania has grown into and highlighted the new competition system.

"FIBA Oceania has a sound governance structure, there are opportunities for all its members to contribute to the strategic plan, and participate in a truly global game," shared Wheadon.

“I hope that the National Federations of FIBA Oceania take advantage of the opportunities and the game continues to grow," she added.

Photo: Wheadon with current FIBA Oceania President Burton Shipley and FIBA Finance Commision Member, John Gallagher

Wheadon humbly acknowledged the people who have helped in her FIBA Oceania journey and looks forward to the 50th-anniversary celebration.

”I would love to give credit to Basketball Australia to especially thank Patrick Hunt and Lorraine Landon with their help. To Basketball NZ for the opportunity to represent NZ on the international stage. To my husband Graeme, he has enjoyed the journey as much an I have," shared Wheadon.

"I anticipate catching up with old friends and I plan to attend the Federations workshop and am sure I will hear all about the good things happening in the zone," she added.

 FIBA