By way of an exceptional rise through FIBA’s ranks, Amanda Jenkins has been appointed to the position of acting Executive Director Oceania for FIBA following the FIBA Executive Committee meeting this week.
Tasked with developing and growing basketball throughout the region, Jenkins is only the fourth person to hold this position since 1967 – and, the first-ever female.
Based at the Oceania regional office in the Gold Coast Australia, Jenkins takes over the role from David Crocker, who will continue to direct the FIBA Basketball World Cup across Japan, Indonesia and the Philippines in 2023.
“I was pleased to recommend Amanda to the Executive Committee for this position. Amanda has shown her leadership capabilities over a number of years now and the collective effort of the Oceania team has been well noted globally,” Secretary General, Andreas Zagklis, commented.
“With David’s role with the FIBA Basketball World Cup increasing, and the need to pursue the development activities again in region, I believe Amanda is the best person for this role. It’s also great timing in view of the Women’s World Cup taking place in Sydney later this year.” Zagklis continued.
Jenkins first started with FIBA in 2014 and never looked back. Reflecting on the past eight years, Jenkins says she’s loved every moment working for basketball.
“Basketball has always been a wonderful community to be a part of. Before joining FIBA, I was coaching basketball in Australia and working at a local council. When an administrative role was advertised by FIBA, I saw it as a chance to combine my passion for business management and love for the sport I grew up playing and coaching. I was fortunate that I was suited to the role and it went from there.”
The opportunities made available to Jenkins through FIBA’s Women in Basketball programme have helped prepare her for the task. Notably, Oceania was the first region to appoint a woman as President; Barbara Wheadon in 2006.
“Our sport is unique in the equal opportunities it offers to women on the court and the push to drive programmes off court in the last few years has been exciting. I’ve also been fortunate to take those opportunities and make the most of them.”
During the past eight years, Jenkins has enjoyed playing a part in the rise of Oceania basketball. Participation numbers continue to increase, fan engagement is flourishing, FIBA’s events are world class, and the opportunities through the region’s Basketball For Good programme are significant.
Having been mentored by David Crocker, Jenkins offered a special mention for her predecessor’s guidance.
“David has been immense for my career. He has always been an advocate and allowed me to grow and develop. David, alongside President Burton Shipley and his predecessor Bob Elphinston, have left the region in a good place. I look forward to playing my part in continuing the great work.”