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ABOUT US
Founded in 2010 by our CEO, Ruth Fettes, the Cobras Basketball Club aimed to introduce the sport she cherished, to children of all skill levels in the Bracknell area. Her vision was to create a secure, nurturing, and welcoming environment for them to enjoy the game.
Since then, the club has flourished, extending its guiding principles to teams spanning various age groups. This includes teams competing at the CVL level for under 8s, all the way up to the Under 18 National League and even adult teams in the local Wessex league and adult National League.
The Bracknell Cobras boast a rich history of producing successful players, with former members making appearances in BBL academy teams. More recently, some of our U18 players have pursued opportunities at colleges in the USA.
Expanding our reach, we've introduced Slough Cobras, training sessions in the Slough area with aspirations to replicate the same success achieved in Bracknell.
MEET THE TEAM
Ruth Fettes
Founder, CEO & Safeguarding Lead
Get To know Me...
I first started playing basketball at secondary school when I was 13. I had moved from the Midlands to Bracknell and found myself at a large, rough school. I had no friends and was bullied for my accent. I used to go to the sports hall every break and lunch to play basketball. My form tutor, who was also a PE teacher, encouraged me as he played basketball too. At that time, there was a pro team in Bracknell, The Bracknell Tigers, and I started watching them with my brother.
I played for the school and County team and continued at university. I got into coaching 17 years ago when my youngest, Ben, was about 3. I was working as Director of Development for a professional basketball team, and my two eldest children wanted to play, so I started coaching the U10s.
In 2010, I set up the Bracknell Cobras to create a safe, welcoming space for anyone from any background or ability to try basketball.
Now, I coach U8s, walking basketball, after-school clubs, and promotional sessions, helping people discover the joy of basketball, just like I did when I first picked up the ball.
Jeff Skinner
Club Chairman & Treasurer
Get To know Me...
I’ve been involved in basketball in and around Bracknell since 1966 when I first started learning the game at Ranelagh. Over the years, I’ve taken on many roles as a player, coach, and administrator. Currently, I serve as the volunteer chairman for the South Region at Basketball England and as the volunteer treasurer for the Cobras for the past seven years. Basketball has been a significant part of my life, and I believe it’s a fantastic sport for children and adults alike, fostering lasting friendships and skills.
I was drawn to the Cobras because Ruth’s approach aligns with my own values. The club is committed to offering opportunities for as many people as possible to play basketball, regardless of personal circumstances or ability. The focus is not only on playing the game but also on learning how to be a part of a team, appreciating what you have, and eventually giving back to the community.
Now, in my retirement, I find great satisfaction in contributing to something so valuable to the local community. It’s been rewarding to see the club thrive, and I’m proud to be part of an organization that positively impacts the lives of so many.
Richard Stollery
Director
Get To know Me...
I’m an experienced coach with a background in coaching junior, senior, men’s, and women’s teams at both local and national levels. My basketball journey began when I represented Leicestershire while at university, and I also played in the National League for the Camberley Eagles.
Throughout my coaching career, I’ve had the privilege of coaching my daughter, Alex, who represented the Reading Rockets, and my son, Joe, while coaching the Guildford Heat U16 and U18 teams. Joe has since become one of our qualified Cobras coaches, which has been a proud moment for me.
It’s also a family affair in our coaching staff, as my son-in-law, Andy Blakeway, has played at national level, including with Brixton Topcats, and is now also a qualified Cobras coach. Having the chance to coach alongside my family and watch them develop their passion for basketball has been incredibly fulfilling.
Basketball has not only shaped my life but also brought our family closer together. I’m proud to see the next generation of players and coaches emerge within our family, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to the sport I love. It’s a family affair!
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Marc Rose
Director
Get To know Me...
I played some basketball in school, but rugby was always my main sport. Unfortunately, injuries forced me to stop playing rugby. Years later, a couple of guys from the gym where I work asked if I’d like to try basketball again. In 2017, the Bracknell Cobras men’s team was reborn, and I became one of the 12 players. Around the same time, my eldest son started training with the U10s, even though he was only 5 at the time.
It didn’t take long for my rugby-worn body to give up. After a couple of enjoyable years playing for the Cobras, injuries once again forced me to stop. During that time, my son Jake had progressed significantly and was showing real passion for basketball. While sitting on the sidelines watching him train, I realized it would be a waste not to use my skills from my degree in sports coaching and my career in fitness and personal training to help out.
The rest is history. I now enjoy my role as a helper and bench personnel, supporting the team where I can while leaving the technical coaching to the main coaches. It’s rewarding to contribute and stay connected to the sport.
Creon Raftopoulus
Coach Development Lead
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Coming Soon...
Alex Halmkan
Head of Player Development
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My basketball journey began at 11 years old when I joined an afterschool club. From there, I went on to play National League basketball from U14 through U18. During this time, I was fortunate to compete in what is now known as ASPIRE and represented the South England team in the 2014 Regional Tournament. I also spent two years playing academy basketball at Henley College, which helped refine my skills and deepen my love for the game.
My coaching journey started at just 15, when I volunteered to coach U10s on Saturday mornings. It was a great experience that sparked my passion for teaching the game. In 2020, I joined the Bracknell Cobras as a coach, and I’m proud to now coach for the club full-time.
In terms of qualifications, I hold a Level 2 Coaching certification and a Level 3 Table Official qualification, which have equipped me to contribute both on and off the court.
Outside of basketball, I’m a big movie enthusiast and love going to the cinema. My favorite basketball movie is Coach Carter, as it perfectly captures the values of teamwork and perseverance that I strive to bring to my coaching.
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Michaela Tucker-Blackford
Lead Coach of Girls Basketball
Get To know Me...
I started playing basketball at the age of 15 for Solent Ladies and quickly fell in love with the game. I played at the National League level and for the South England juniors. My basketball journey took me to Eau Claire University in the USA, where I played for the Bluegolds. After suffering an ACL injury, I transitioned into coaching, working with teams such as London Towers, Trailblazers, and Invictus. I also served as the Head Academy Coach at Bournemouth and Southampton Universities, where I led both teams to win all four titles.
Recently, I spent time living in Madrid and Slovakia, where I coached both the U14 and U18 boys and girls teams, achieving back-to-back season wins for the past three years. Coaching has always been a family affair for me—I’ve had the pleasure of coaching both of my daughters. My oldest played for England and GB, while my youngest currently plays in Slovakia.
Throughout my coaching career, I’ve been passionate about developing players and helping them grow, both on and off the court. I’m excited to bring my experience and love for the game to new coaching opportunities and continue inspiring the next generation of players.
Keri Williams
Sports Programme, Events & Afterschool School Club Coordinator
Get To know Me...
Coming Soon...
Stephie Davis
Platforms & Communications Coordinator, HAF Liaison
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Our daughter developed a sudden urge to try basketball in 2020, and what began as a curiosity quickly became a roaring passion. Since joining Cobras, she has thrived on the court, and I found myself drawn to a sport I knew little about. It turns out that basketball runs in the family - my dad played at school, for the Tameside County Team, and for the Greater Manchester Police in 1981-82. Today, our daughter proudly plays under her Grandad’s no. 10.
Watching her play, grow, and embrace the positive atmosphere created by Ruth and the club inspired me to get more involved. After spending over 10 years in corporate compliance, I decided to leave that behind and join the Cobras team in April 2022.
Since then, I’ve assisted with coaching the U8s & TM for U12 Mixed NL team 23-24. I’ve even started playing basketball myself in the walking basketball sessions when I have the chance. Embracing the “Basketball Mum” role, I’m proud to support the club in every way I can, including sponsoring it. It’s been an incredible journey, and I look forward to continuing to be part of this amazing basketball community.
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Eleanor Fettes
Administration Assistant
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Coming Soon...
Nigel Crump
Website Developer
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My basketball journey began at 8 years old when I watched a finals game on TV and thought, "This is a game I want to play!" I was captivated by the speed and intensity of the game—how you can’t slow down. I begged my parents to let me try, and they signed me up for lessons at Bracknell Sports Centre, where I had the privilege of learning from Bracknell Tigers legend Peter Scantlebury. After a year of training, I joined the Tigers’ junior teams and played there until U17s coached by Andy Lewington, improving my skills along the way.
I took a break from basketball to focus on college but returned to the game at 20, playing in the Wessex League for Camberley. Later, I joined the Aztecs before moving on to help form the Cobras Men’s team. It wasn’t always easy, but I’m proud of how far we’ve come. I love the group of guys we have now, and being part of this team has been incredibly rewarding.
Though I’m nearing the end of my playing days, I still give everything I have on the court. After 35 years of playing basketball, my passion for the game remains as strong as ever.