Meet the Founders
Having worked at every level of the game, I co-founded Ascenders because I believe basketball can do more than develop players, it can develop people. Some career highlights include working with well established clubs MK Breakers and Oaklands Wolves, where I head coached JNL teams across U12, U14 and U16 age groups. Alongside this I've been fortunate to support Gary Maitland working with NBA players such as Jimmy Butler and Jordan Poole, as well as content creators Darkest Man and James Duncan. Above all else, my biggest pride is seeing players I've had the privilege to work with go on to flourish and access great opportunities, such as scholarships and national team call ups, but most importantly life achievements that go beyond the court.
George Gillam
Head of basketball and partnerships
I co-founded Ascenders because I'm passionate about creating an environment where every player feels confident being themselves without having to change who they are. Outside of Ascenders, I work as a SEND Peer Advocate with the local council, supporting young people under the age of 25 to help co-produce the services that support them, ensuring their voices are heard and their experiences shape meaningful change. I'm also completing a Master’s degree, where my research explores neuro-inclusive practice and how organisations can be more inclusive for everyone. My hope is that Ascenders is a place where players feel understood, families feel supported, and wellbeing, inclusion and respect are central to the club culture, because I believe every young person deserves to feel that they belong.
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