Former WNBL star and London Olympian Natalie Stafford has been appointed to the position of Development and Participation Officer with the Northern Suburbs Basketball Association.

Stafford commences in the role this week after Robbie McKinlay accepted the position of assistant coach with the Sydney Kings recently.

A former WNBL stand-out with Dandenong and Sydney Uni, Stafford enjoyed a long career as a player before moving into coaching and development over the last 18 months. Currently head coach of the Norths Bears Waratah Championship Women, she is also involved in coaching at school and local levels in and around the North Shore.

Stafford brings a wealth of playing experience to the role, having played collegiately at the University of Oregon prior to commencing her WNBL career with Sydney and Dandenong. The highlight of her playing career was representing host nation Great Britain at the 2012 London Olympics.

A NCAS Level Two accredited coach, Stafford will be charged with the operation of the popular NSBA development and holiday camp programs, as well as re-establishing strong links with local schools through clinics and programs.

NSBA Development Manager Peter Lonergan paid tribute to outgoing Development Officer Robbie McKinlay in announcing Stafford’s appointment.

“Robbie has done an outstanding job over two years and his passion and drive for developing young players has been key in the growth of the various programs,” Lonergan said.

“Natalie is a passionate basketball person who displays a great enthusiasm in coaching and developing young players, so we are excited to have her join the team here at Norths.”