Aylesford Basketball was formed in 1968 by John Mumford & Graham Minton (ex Aylesford School Pupils) who were introduced to the game by the then Aylesford P.E Teacher Mr. Terry Bott. They wanted to play competitive basketball after leaving school so the Aylesford club was formed. The team entered the Warwickshire Basketball League in the 1968/69 season with very little money, very little idea of organised team basketball but with a lot of heart and enthusiasm and a group of committed players.

 

Aylesford Basketball Club is now the oldest established club in the Warwickshire area and one of the oldest in England, it has every year since 1968/69 entered teams in the various competitions within both Warwickshire and the west midlands area. John started as secretary and treasurer and since then has moved on to become Chairman, Coach, Manager, Secretary & Treasurer. Before mentioning the results of the club, two people must me mentioned, Johns mum and dad, with their help, advice, money and assistance Aylesford Basketball Club has survived. Unfortunately, Johns dad passed away in March 1989, he was always one of the greatest supporters. Johns Mum, who most players refer to as “Mrs. M” passed away peacefully in June 2009. Mrs. M was ever present helping making everyone at Aylesford and The Bridge welcome, serving tea and coffee, taking the endless phone calls from members, particularly juniors of “where is training??” and “where should we be??”, she helped at all the games, tournaments and camps. Mrs. M was basically Aylesford Basketball Club, and will be sadly missed by all.

 

The club has, in its time, won many championships. It has seen many good players and friends come and go. It formed a ladies section at one time only to see it unfortunately close as the Women’s game fell into decline. It has hosted and taken part in five international tournaments with trips to France, Germany & Austria and in 1982 organised the first ever international tournament in Warwick at which the home side Potterton Hawks were Champions.

 

The Aylesford Club appears today stronger than ever despite the problems faced by all local sports club that off the financial cost, we still rely on members giving their time free of charge to keep the game of basketball alive in Warwick and at our club. John for one has enjoyed every minute of running this great club and I am sure we will survive for many more years to come.