Tom Forde

Hawks Men’s Player Profile   

Age: 27   Nickname: Fordey, Relentless, “Teach me how to Fordey”

Studies/Work: Studied Mechanical Engineering and Finance. Currently working at BHP Billiton in Sustainability.

Why basketball? Because basketballers are awesome! Have you met Ben Purser!?

How many years have you been playing? About 14 years, ever since I moved from NZ to Melbourne and had to fit in to avoid getting beaten up for having an accent.

Tell us about the season so far.... For a team with so many new faces and a new coaching staff we have had incredible chemistry. Our biggest limitation so far this season is that we occasionally beat ourselves when we don’t commit to each other and the system that the coaching staff have put in place. This comes down to two things, ensuring that we bring our best effort at all times and trusting each other and the rules we have in place. When we’ve done those two things we’ve played well enough to beat any team in the league.

Favourite players/inspirational people: I generally feel more inspired by actions instead of people. Some of the most touching moments I‘ve witnessed have been created by the hands of complete strangers, showing compassion and generosity to their fellow people. When it comes to basketball, the dedication and energy the Hawks coaching staff bring to every game and training is incredible and when all 12 players are giving that same commitment and energy that’s what inspires me. It’s either that or Dirk Nowitzki when he won the NBA Championship.

Favourite moments playing: Two moments stick in my mind. 1) Winning the BigV Championship back in Melbourne. We took Game 1 at home, Game 2 we flew to Mildura (rough country town) and lost, the crowd were spitting on us after the game and were generally pretty feral. Game 3 was the next day at the same venue, we came out and won a tough fight, we cut down their nets, got the hell out of there and back on the plane to Melbourne to celebrate! 2) Winning back to back Uni Games titles as Team Captain for Monash University and being named to the Green and Gold (All-Tournament) team – We played against some really talented players and those tournaments are always a physical and mental battle. The team we had those two years was so tough and tenacious, we fought out both of those titles in grit and grind fashion. I formed some tight bonds with teammates during those weeks and had some incredible memories both on and off the court.

3 things you're good at other than basketball: Math, supporting friends and family, partying.

8 of your favourite things you couldn't live without: My best friends, my close family, my teammates, eating good food, surf beaches, my spa, Media Box and gas stovetops.

If you could hang out with any 5 people in the world, who would they be? Let’s make it 6 people – I would choose the 6 other guys who start on the bench with me each week. We bring the energy and noise every night and have a great time doing it.

Favourite quote: “If you don't like something change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude. Don't complain.” - Maya Angelou

Anything else you'd like to add? Thanks to all of the supporters who have come to our games this year. We appreciate and love the support you bring and we’re looking forward to seeing you in the finals when we fight to bring home the Championship!