DVBA 50 Years Stories – Debbie Keogh
Fifty years ago, Debbie Keogh first walked through the doors of Diamond Valley Basketball as a young girl, watching something special begin.
Her journey started when her parents helped form one of the association’s early domestic clubs.
“50 years ago I walked into Diamond Valley as a young girl watching my parents start a domestic team called Rosanna East Basketball Club,” Debbie recalls.
The club was created after a local PE teacher, Joanne Rustic, was looking for people willing to step forward and coach girls’ basketball. Debbie’s parents, Mike Kapnoullas and the late Lorraine Kapnoullas, answered that call and established Rosanna East Basketball Club.
Debbie began playing in that domestic team, a start that would lead her into the Diamond Valley representative program.
“In Under 12s I played bottom age in the one team with Shelly Gorman, who is well known and went on to play for the Australian Opals.”
While many seasons stand out, one in particular remains her favourite.
“My favourite year by far was my Under 14 year when we made Nationals and headed off to Tasmania. We finished with a silver medal, only losing by one point.”
Debbie credits many people for shaping her basketball journey, including one coach who left a lasting impact.
“My favourite coach was Trish Cockrem. She was a guard and taught me so much through those years.”
Her involvement in Diamond Valley didn’t stop at playing. Debbie also contributed in other important roles within the association.
“I umpired at Diamond Valley and was also a grading secretary.”
Basketball soon became a family tradition.
Debbie watched her own children play at Diamond Valley, and hopes that one day she will see the next generation continue that journey.
“Hopefully one day I will see my grandchildren play too.”
Perhaps Debbie’s greatest contribution has come through coaching. For more than three decades she has dedicated herself to developing young players within the Diamond Valley program.
“I have coached over 35 years at Diamond Valley and thank my success to my parents and also Alan McAughtry for mentoring me.”
Today, Debbie continues to pass on her knowledge and love of the game as the coach of the Under 12 Girls One team.
“It truly is a blessing to see young kids develop and love our game so much. Hopefully we are impacting their lives for the better.”
Beyond the court, Debbie remembers the strong sense of community that has always been part of the association.
“Social events were directed by the late Brian Harvey and Josie Harvey. I remember my parents and their friends having wonderful events together. It created a great culture.”
When Debbie reflects on her lifetime at Diamond Valley Basketball, one thing stands above all else.
“I would say making lifelong friends is by far the most precious thing I will treasure at Diamond Valley Basketball Association.”
