West Adelaide Bearcats Basketball Club

Legends & Hall of Fame

The West Adelaide Bearcats Hall of Fame was established in 2012 to recognise the outstanding individuals who have shaped the club’s proud history.

The Hall of Fame is divided into three categories: Bearcats Legends, Hall of Fame Inductees and the Honour Roll, each recognising different levels of contribution to the club and the game of basketball.

Hall of Fame induction occurs with nominees reviewed by the Traditions Committee and recommended to the Executive based on their performance, influence, and enduring legacy as among the most outstanding figures in the Club’s history.

If you’d like to nominate an outstanding contributor, please follow this link.

For more information on the guidelines to nominate a Hall of Fame nominee please read here.

Bearcats Legends

ALAN DAWE - Inducted 2012

Alan Dawe is one of the great figures in the history of the West Adelaide Bearcats and South Australian basketball.

A highly skilled backcourt player, Alan helped guide the Bearcats to championships in 1951 and 1952, beginning a playing career that spanned the 1950s and 1960s. His excellence on court was recognised with Woollacott Medals in 1958 and 1959, awarded to South Australia’s best and fairest player, and selection for Australia at the 1960 Olympic Games.

Alan later transitioned to coaching, leading the Bearcats to six championships during the club’s dominant 1960s and 1970s era. He also served as Head Coach of the South Australian senior men’s team for seven years, winning three Australian Senior National Championships.

His contribution to the game continued as an Australian selector and assistant coach at the 1980 Moscow Olympic Games, and he was later inducted into the Basketball Association of South Australia Hall of Fame.

Alan Dawe’s legacy as a player, coach and leader firmly establishes him as a Bearcats legend.

WERNER LINDE - Inducted 2012

Werner Linde is widely regarded as one of the greatest shooters in Australian basketball history and one of the most decorated players in Bearcats history.

A West Adelaide junior under coach Keith Miller, Werner progressed rapidly through the ranks and became a dominant figure in South Australian basketball. He was a six-time premiership player and the first player to win three Woollacott Medals, awarded as South Australia’s best and fairest player, in 1966, 1969 and 1971.

Werner was also Most Valuable Player of the South Australian competition three times, a multiple club MVP, and represented South Australia at senior level for more than a decade, helping secure three Australian Championship victories. He represented Australia at the Olympic Games in 1964 and 1968.

Across his State League career, Werner scored more than 10,000 points, an extraordinary achievement in the era before the three-point line.

His remarkable scoring ability and dedication to the game left a lasting impact on generations of players, securing his place as a true Bearcats legend.

KEITH MILLER - Inducted 2012

Keith Miller is one of the founding figures of the West Adelaide Basketball Club and a pioneer of the game in South Australia.

As a player, Keith helped guide the Bearcats to four championships in five years and was awarded the inaugural Woollacott Medal in 1947 as the best and fairest player in the South Australian men’s competition.

As Head Coach of the South Australian men’s team, Keith led the state to Australian National Championships in 1960, 1962 and 1963. In 1962 he was appointed coach of the Australian men’s team and guided the Boomers at the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo, where Australia finished ninth.

Keith’s service to basketball was recognised with Life Membership of the West Adelaide Basketball Club, the Metropolitan Amateur Basketball Association and the South Australian Amateur Basketball Association. He also received the Australian Basketball Union Merit Award in 1981 and was inducted into the Basketball Australia Hall of Fame in 2007 as a coach.

Keith Miller’s influence across club, state and national basketball makes him one of the true legends of the Bearcats.

TED POWELL - Inducted 2012

Ted Powell is widely regarded as one of the founding figures of the Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) and a major contributor to the development of women’s basketball in Australia.

Ted served as West Adelaide Senior Women’s Coach from 1976 to 1991 and coached the Lady Bearcats WNBL team from 1981 to 1991, leading the team in 235 games with a 67 percent win record.

Under his leadership, the Lady Bearcats won State Championships in 1980, 1983 and 1987, reached the Australian Club Championships Final in 1985, and were WNBL Grand Finalists in 1985.

Ted’s contribution extended across all levels of the game. He coached numerous South Australian junior teams, winning a National Championship with the Under-16 girls in 1977, and served as West Adelaide Junior Coaching Director from 1977 to 1992. He also introduced Mini Ball basketball to South Australia in 1976, helping grow the game for young players.

Ted was named BASA Coach of the Year in 1987, received the WNBL Award of Merit in 1995, and was awarded WNBL Life Membership in 1995.

His vision and dedication helped shape women’s basketball in Australia and cement his place among the Bearcats legends.

KEN RICHARDSON - Inducted 2012

Ken Richardson made an immediate impact when he arrived in South Australia to play for West Adelaide, quickly establishing himself as one of the most dominant players in the country.

In 1975 he guided the Bearcats to a State Championship and won the Woollacott Medal as South Australia’s best player. After two seasons with St Kilda in 1976 and 1977, he returned to West Adelaide in 1978.

With the formation of the NBL in 1979, Ken led the Bearcats to national prominence. He was awarded the inaugural NBL Most Valuable Player award, averaging 26 points and close to 10 rebounds per game.

As Head Coach of the Bearcats NBL team for four seasons, Ken led the club to the finals every year, including a runner-up finish in 1980 and the 1982 NBL Championship. His regular season coaching record of 63 wins and 25 losses remains one of the strongest in NBL history.

As a player in South Australia, Ken won six championships with the Bearcats, including a remarkable five consecutive titles as playing coach from 1978 to 1982.

A true gentleman of the game and one of the most influential figures in Bearcats history.

RACHAEL SPORN - Inducted 2012

Rachael Sporn is one of South Australia’s most celebrated athletes, and her career began with the West Adelaide Bearcats.

Rachael played for West Adelaide from 1986 to 1995, winning a national championship with the South Australian Under-20 team in 1987. She was a two-time Halls Medallist in 1989 and 1993 and a three-time State League Championship player with the Bearcats in 1987, 1992 and 1993.

During her time at West Adelaide, she also recorded 27 rebounds in a single WNBL game, which remains the highest rebound tally in WNBL history.

Rachael went on to enjoy an extraordinary WNBL and international career. She played 377 WNBL games, scoring 5,823 points, and remains the Adelaide Lightning’s all-time leader in games played, scoring and rebounding. She was named WNBL Most Valuable Player in 1996–97.

Rachael represented Australia at three Olympic Games, winning bronze in 1996 and silver medals in 2000 and 2004. She was also Basketball Australia’s Female International Player of the Year in 1993 and a seven-time WNBL All-Star Five member.

Her remarkable career and contribution to basketball firmly establishes Rachael Sporn as a Bearcats legend.

PETER ALI - Inducted 2012, Elevated 2026

Peter Ali’s impact on the West Adelaide Bearcats has been immense. A club junior from the age of six, Peter progressed through the ranks representing South Australia at almost every level.

He played in a record 10 consecutive Grand Finals, winning seven State League Championships, including five consecutive titles from 1978 to 1982. His career also included two NBL Championships, first with West Adelaide in 1982 and later as a member of the Adelaide 36ers’ 1986 ‘Invincibles’ championship team.

Peter’s senior career spanned 16 seasons, including 279 NBL games and more than 500 State League games. One of the highlights of his career was selection for the Australian Boomers at the 1980 Moscow Olympic Games.

He later coached the Bearcats to a State League Championship in 1994 and remained involved with the club coaching juniors across multiple years and still seen recently involved helping guide our U10 program.

Hall of Fame

JACKIE ASTON - Inducted 2012

Jackie Aston began playing for West Adelaide in 1960 at the age of 14 under coach Bern Bruning.

A talented junior who quickly progressed to senior level, Jackie became a multiple West Adelaide Best and Fairest winner and in 1967 became the club’s first female Halls Medallist, after finishing runner-up in 1965 and 1966. She was then awarded the 1965 medal retrospectively after the league adjusted the rules on dual medalists.

She captained West Adelaide on tour to Singapore in 1971 and played a key role in leading the Bearcats women’s team to their first ever championship in 1968.

Jackie represented South Australia at senior level 11 times across 12 years from 1964 to 1975 and also represented Australia on 10 occasions during her distinguished career.

ALAN BRANSTROM - Inducted 2012

Alan Branstrom was the first Club Captain of the West Adelaide Bearcats and one of the club’s founding players.

Originally an accomplished Australian baseball player, Alan brought outstanding athleticism to basketball and quickly became a key figure in the Bearcats’ early success.

He helped lead West Adelaide to championship victories in 1948 and 1949, and his performances were recognised in 1949 when he won the Woollacott Medal as South Australia’s best player.

Alan also represented South Australia at senior level, and his exceptional full-court passing ability, influenced by his baseball background, became a trademark of his game.

Gordon Clamp - Inducted 2012, Elevated 2026

A long‑serving Club Secretary for more than 15 years, Gordon guided the Bearcats through their most transformative era - the rise of the National Basketball League. His leadership helped steer West Adelaide into the national spotlight, reaching NBL Grand Finals in 1980 and 1983 and securing the historic 1982 NBL Championship.

Widely regarded as one of Australia’s finest basketball administrators, Gordon set the benchmark for professionalism, stability and vision off the court. His work shaped the club’s governance, culture and long‑term strength, ensuring West Adelaide remained respected and community‑focused even after its NBL chapter closed in 1984.

Gordon Clamp’s legacy continues to underpin the Bearcats today. His contribution was defined not by statistics, but by leadership, integrity and an enduring commitment to the club he loved. His daughter Sue proudly accepts this honour on his behalf

DEB CLARKE - Inducted 2012

Deb Clarke joined West Adelaide after being recruited from Mount Gambier, where she had already earned selection in successive junior and senior South Australian state teams.

Under the guidance of coaches Terry Aston and Ted Powell, Deb quickly established herself as one of the leading players in South Australian basketball.

Her Bearcats career spanned nine seasons from 1975 to 1983, before recurring knee injuries forced her retirement at the age of 26. Known for her deadly jump shot, tireless work ethic and strong defensive play, Deb was also a respected leader on the court.

Her achievements included selection in the Australian team for the 1980 Olympic Games, captaining West Adelaide from 1979 to 1983, and playing a key role in two championship-winning teams.

JO GILBERTSON (nee WATTS) - Inducted 2012

Jo Gilbertson enjoyed a distinguished career with the Bearcats from the late 1970s through to the mid-1980s.

A talented junior who represented South Australia at Under-16 and Under-18 levels, Jo progressed quickly to the senior ranks and became one of the club’s leading players.

She was a multiple West Adelaide MVP, winner of the Merv Harris Medal, and served as Bearcats Captain. Jo played a major role in leading the team to State League Championships in 1980 and 1983, helping the club reach multiple finals during this era.

Her outstanding performances were recognised nationally when she was selected to represent Australia in the early 1980s.

AL GREEN - Inducted 2012

Al Green is widely regarded as one of the most influential American players to compete in Australian basketball.

Originally from the Bronx, New York, Al arrived in Australia from Louisiana State University (LSU) at the recommendation of Ken Cole. He joined the Bearcats in 1981 and made an immediate impact.

In 1982 he was named league MVP and won the Woollacott Medal as South Australia’s best player. He later led the NBL in scoring in 1984 and still holds the NBL single-game scoring record of 71 points.

Al won two State League Championships, two NBL Championships, including the 1982 title with West Adelaide, and was also a member of the 1986 Adelaide 36ers championship team. He was selected in the NBL All-Star Five on multiple occasions.

Al Green has since been inducted into the NBL Hall of Fame, recognising his lasting impact on Australian basketball.

LEROY LOGGINS

Leroy Loggins joined the Bearcats in 1982 and immediately became a key figure in one of the club’s most memorable eras.

He helped lead the Bearcats to the 1982 State League Championship and was awarded the Woollacott Medal in 1983 as South Australia’s best player. Leroy was also a central figure in the 1982 NBL Championship team, where he was named NBL Grand Final MVP.

During his two seasons with West Adelaide he earned two NBL All-Star Five selections, averaging 25 points per game at 56 percent shooting in 1982, along with 8.5 rebounds per game.

Leroy later went on to play more than 500 NBL games, represent Australia at the Olympic Games, and was inducted into the NBL Hall of Fame in 2006.

GORDON PEARCE - Inducted 2012

Gordon ‘Ginger’ Pearce was a key figure in the early years of the West Adelaide Bearcats.

He helped guide the club to State League Championships in 1951 and 1952, representing the strong working-class spirit that defined the Bearcats during the Kingston era.

Ginger’s performances were recognised in 1954 when he won the Woollacott Medal as South Australia’s fairest and most brilliant player. He also represented South Australia at senior level at Australian National Championships.

His contribution to the early success of the club is proudly recognised through his induction into the Bearcats Hall of Fame.

GLENN MARSLAND - Inducted 2012

Glenn Marsland joined West Adelaide in 1962 after selection in the South Australian Under-16 team, beginning a distinguished career with the Bearcats.

He played in the senior team from 1965 to 1977, captaining the Bearcats from 1973 to 1976 and serving as captain-coach in 1977. Glenn was a key contributor during one of the club’s most successful periods, winning six State League Championships in 1967, 1968, 1970, 1971, 1972 and 1975.

At representative level, Glenn played for South Australia from 1967 to 1976 and served as State Captain from 1973 to 1976. His achievements were recognised nationally when he was selected for the Australian team on the 1971 World Tour, followed by selection for the Australian Boomers at the 1972 Munich Olympic Games.

Glenn again represented Australia at the 1974 World Championship in Puerto Rico, concluding a distinguished international career and leaving a lasting mark on the history of the Bearcats.

MIKE McKAY - Inducted 2012

Mike McKay first walked into Bowden Stadium at the age of 12, where coach John Wright immediately recognised his potential.

Mike went on to enjoy an extraordinary career that included more than 1,000 games across international, NBL and State League competition. After a successful junior career, he made his NBL debut in 1983 and was selected for the Australian National Junior Team in 1984.

His achievements include the 1984 Milestone Medal, 1985 NBL Rookie of the Year, and membership of the Adelaide 36ers’ famous 1986 “Invincibles” championship team. Mike also captained championship teams in 1988 and 1994.

At international level he represented Australia at the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games and remained involved with the national program for several years. Mike was retrospectively awarded the 1987 Woollacott medal and was also a runner-up in 1988.

PAT MICKAN - Inducted 2012

Pat Mickan comes from one of South Australia’s most recognised sporting families and enjoyed an outstanding basketball career with the Lady Bearcats.

Pat joined West Adelaide in 1982 and remained an integral part of the team for the next seven years. She played a key role in the 1987 State League Championship team and received numerous honours during her career, including All-Star Five selections and club MVP awards.

Her achievements were recognised internationally when she was selected to represent Australia at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

Pat later represented Australia again at the 1986 World Championships in Russia, highlighting both her talent and durability at the elite level.

CASS PUJALS - Inducted 2012

Cass Pujals was one of the most dynamic and prolific scorers ever produced by the Lady Bearcats.

Across a career spanning more than 14 years, Cass became one of the most decorated players in the club’s history. She was a three-time Halls Medallist in 1987 and 1988 and then was retrospectively awarded the 1989 medal as well, recognising her as the best and fairest player in the South Australian women’s competition.

Cass played 167 WNBL games from the league’s inaugural season in 1981, while also helping West Adelaide secure three State League Championships. She was a multiple club MVP and a standout performer throughout her career.

Her scoring ability and leadership made her a central figure in one of the most successful eras in Bearcats women’s basketball.

DAVID SPEAR - Inducted 2012

David Spear’s connection with the Bearcats began almost from birth. His first appearance at Forestville Stadium came at the age of three, playing in a team coached by his father, Bill.

Over the next 43 years, basketball and the Bearcats became central to his life. David played more than 450 State League games, winning three championships in 1988, 1994 and 1996. He was also a club MVP and All-Star Five selection.

In 1996, David became the last playing coach to lead the Bearcats men to a State League championship.

At the national level he played 144 NBL games with West Adelaide and the Adelaide 36ers and was also a member of the 1986 36ers ‘Invincibles’ championship team.

David’s contribution extends beyond playing. He has served as a five-time state junior representative and captain, SEABL championship-winning captain, national classics-winning coach, state junior coach, and multiple junior championship-winning coach, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to the Bearcats.

BLAKE TRUSLOVE - Inducted 2026

Beginning his Bearcats journey in 1999, Blake made an immediate impact, winning the Club MVP in his debut season and again in 2002. He dominated the State League across the early 2000s, earning four consecutive All Star Five selections, three straight Bearcat Medals, and national recognition with selection to the 2001 ABL All Star Five, where he led Australia in rebounds and blocks.

Blake’s performances propelled him into the NBL, where he played 75 games for Adelaide, Canberra and the New Zealand Breakers, winning championships in both the NBL and NZNBL. Yet his loyalty to West Adelaide never wavered — returning between national seasons to represent the Bearcats across an incredible 19 State League seasons and 356 games.

His longevity is unmatched: five All Star Five honours, multiple MVPs spanning a 15‑year gap, five Grand Finals, and the 2017 State League Championship as club captain and starting centre.

Blake’s influence continued well beyond his playing career. As a member of the Executive Committee and now NBL1 General Manager, he has helped build all three of West Adelaide’s NBL1 Central Conference championship teams — the most of any club in Australia.

Across three decades, Blake Truslove has shaped the Bearcats through excellence, loyalty and leadership. His legacy is woven into the club’s history, and continues to grow.

RAY WOOD - Inducted 2012

Ray Wood began playing for the Bearcats at the age of 10 and built a remarkable career defined by his defensive intensity.

As a junior he represented South Australia and won a National Championship, achievements that led to his selection for Australia at Under-20 national junior level.

Ray went on to enjoy a highly successful senior career, winning six State League Premierships and playing more than 500 games for the Bearcats. He also enjoyed success in the NBL, winning two NBL Championships with West Adelaide in 1982 and the Adelaide 36ers in 1986.

Known as one of the league’s elite defenders, Ray won the NBL Best Defensive Player Award in 1980 and 1981. His career included 245 NBL games across 16 seasons, as well as selection in the Australian Senior Squad.

SAM WOOSNAM - Inducted 2012

Sam Woosnam began her Bearcats career at the age of 16 and quickly developed into one of the club’s most accomplished players.

By 1997, she had already won a Silver Medal with the Australian Junior Team at the Junior World Championships in Brazil. Sam represented South Australia at junior level three times and played for the Bearcats senior team from 1997 to 2010, appearing in more than 250 games.

Her professional career included overseas seasons in Austria, Germany, France and Portugal, where she won championships and earned All-Star Five honours in the Austrian League in 2002.

Sam played 236 WNBL games, winning three championships with Adelaide in 1998 and 2008 and Dandenong in 2011-12. Her individual honours include the Merv Harris Medal in 1999, Halls Medal in 2006, two All-Star Five selections, ABA Championship in 2007, and Grand Final MVP in 2007.

She also coached the Bearcats for three seasons, earning Coach of the Year honours in 2009.

JULIE WRIGHT (nee BAILLIE) - Inducted 2012

Julie Wright joined the Bearcats in 1970 at the age of 12 through a connection with South Australian sporting figure Stan Wickham.

She quickly progressed through the junior ranks, playing Under-16 and Under-18 basketball in her first season before making her first senior district appearance at just 13 years of age in 1971.

Julie represented South Australia as a junior four times, winning three national titles, before earning selection in the South Australian senior team at the age of 15.

Later that same year she was selected in the Australian squad, named as a reserve for Australia in 1973, and remained a member of the national squad for the following four years.

Honour Roll

Terry Aston - Inducted 2012

Terry Aston was the Bearcats’ Junior Coaching Director for over a decade. He guided the women’s teams during the early years of women’s basketball, including one premiership, and supported the district men and NBL team as bench coach to multiple titles. Terry also coached the South Australian State Women’s team for six years, winning two national championships, leaving a 20-year legacy of player development and club success.

Lloyd Bain - Inducted 2012

A founding player of West Adelaide in the early 1950s, Lloyd Bain won two State Championships in 1951 and 1952 and represented South Australia at multiple Australian National Championships. A tough competitor, he played a key role in establishing the foundation of the Bearcats.

Trina Balter - Inducted 2012

Trina Balter began with the Bearcats in U/12s and developed into a 13-year veteran, playing 144 WNBL games and nearly 400 State League games. A five-time junior state team member, two-time Australian U/21 representative, three-time State League champion, club captain, and Australian Classics Championship winner, Trina’s contribution to the Bearcats is immense.

Suzy Batkovic - Inducted 2012

Suzy Batkovic represented West Adelaide in 2002, winning the Halls Medal and reinvigorating the Lady Bearcats’ program. A league-leading WNBL player which led to the MVP medal being renamed in her honour, former WNBA player, and Australian Olympian, Suzy’s influence both on and off the court is outstanding.

Dick Bruning - Inducted 2012

Dick Bruning’s association with the club dates back to 1947, including multiple State Championships in 1948, 49, 51, and 52. A long-term junior coach, player, and supporter, Dick helped build the club’s early infrastructure, including Forestville Stadium, and remains a foundational figure in Bearcats history.

Brad Dalton - Inducted 2026

Brad Dalton joined West Adelaide and quickly became one of Australia’s premier big men, helping the Bearcats win three straight State League titles and starting at centre in the club’s historic 1982 NBL Championship. His performances earned national selection, leading to two Olympic Games, two World Championships and a distinguished NBL career with Sydney, Geelong and the Kings.

Dion Grieger - Inducted 2026

Dion Grieger has contributed to the Bearcats across more than three decades as a player, captain, coach and administrator. A member of the 1996 State League Championship team and captain in 2000 and 2001, Dion went on to coach senior and junior programs before taking on key roles in player development and junior operations. His leadership has been central to the strength of the club’s junior pathway, reflected in West Adelaide being named the 2026 SA Overall State Junior Club Champion.

Alan Hughes - Inducted 2012

Alan Hughes typified the West Adelaide spirit. A multiple State League player in the 1960s and 70s, he captured six championships and coached at both senior and junior levels, leaving a lasting mark on the club’s culture.

Bob Hunnerup - Inducted 2012

Bob Hunnerup coached junior girls for nearly four decades. Commencing in 1980 he steered the junior grils program to greatness including achieving 13 consecutive U/18 grand finals with nine championships and a National Classics title in 1985. He was a State coach who guided SA to 6 National Championships games and a National title in 1987. He also served as senior assistant coach for the Lady Bearcats before head coach of the men for three years and held multiple coaching director roles which culminated in the 2002 State Boys Junior Champions, shaping generations of Bearcats players.

Denis Jones - Inducted 2012

Known affectionately as ‘Coach Jones.’ Denis has dedicated almost 40 years to coaching juniors at all levels for West Adelaide and stepped into the coaching director role multiple times. He led the U/16 state team for multiple years with great success. He had won multiple championships at club and state level and inspired many with his passion for player development.

Shayne Kaesler - Inducted 2026

Shayne "Tank" Kaesler’s connection to the Bearcats spans more than forty years, rising from Under 10s to premierships and becoming one of the club’s toughest and most loyal competitors. His influence off the court has been just as significant - leading the Senior Men’s Division 3 program, coaching countless junior teams, and serving on the Executive Committee for around 15 years. A Life Member since 2006, Shayne’s long‑term commitment, leadership and service have helped shape the character and culture of the Bearcats.

Roger King - Inducted 2012

Roger King was a jump-shooting forward who made an immediate impact in South Australian basketball. A six-time State League champion, milestone medalist, and Australian Squad member leading up to the 1972 Olympics, Roger helped define one of the club’s most successful eras playing well over 300 games for the club.

Fred Maddiford - Inducted 2012

Fred Maddiford was one of the longest serving Presidents in West Adelaide history. For nearly 14 years Fred lead the bearcats off the court and through one of the most successful periods in club history. With both the Senior men’s and women’s teams competing in the National leagues from the outset, Fred’s vision was to provide the best possible foundation for the club. Fred was a member of the NBL and WNBL Board Committee’s from day one and ensured the bearcats success off the court created a seamless transition for success on the court.

Trevor Maddiford - Inducted 2012

A versatile and reliable player, a club junior from aged 7 Trevor Maddiford was a multiple State junior including 3 National titles, five-time State League champion, and key member of the the NBL side from 1979 to 1982 including the NBL Championship team. Known for scoring, defense, and leadership, he epitomized the club’s competitive spirit.

Debbie Miller - Inducted 2012

Debbie Miller played over 500 State League games and 168 WNBL games with West Adelaide. A five-time State representative and captain, she won three championships, club MVP honors, and the Dora Mudge Trophy, demonstrating extraordinary commitment to the Bearcats.

Jack Miller - Inducted 2012

Jack Miller was another founding member of the West Adelaide Bearcats. A two x Championship player in 1951 & 1952, and younger brother of legendary coach Keith Miller, Jack was the prototype Centre, standing all of 6’1” Jack was the teams leading rebounder and hard man. He forged his own elite career highlighted by being selected to represent South Australia at State Senior level.

Heather McKinnon - Inducted 2012

A veteran of 211 WNBL Games with West Adelaide Heather made her impression on basketball in this state as a tireless power forward who played a selfless style of game to the benefit of her teammates. Heather Commenced playing at West Adelaide - 1977 – and retired 1991 Heather played 211 WNBL games and close to Six hundred for the club. A State junior from U16 to U20 and an Australian Senior squad member, Heather played in 3 Premierships 1980, 83 & 87 and captained the club for a number of years.

Dora Mudge - Inducted 2026

One of the most cherished figures in West Adelaide’s history. Living opposite Bowden Stadium, she became a constant presence, working the canteen, assisting with miniball, welcoming families and supporting generations of players. She championed the women’s program, travelled with national teams throughout the 1980s, and was honoured with Life Membership in 1981. Affectionately known as “Mrs Chocolate Fudge”, Dora’s legacy continues through the award renamed in her honour, the Most Promising Female Junior, a reflection of her profound impact on young women in the sport. Her photo above the canteen remains a lasting reminder of the heart and spirit she brought to the Bearcats.

Vic Robinson - Inducted 2012

Vic stands as a beacon to junior coaches everywhere. Who else can state that there contribution to a club’s greatness was their ability to teach u/10’s the art of playing this great game and to do it over such a length of time is testament to Vic’s durability as a coach, mentor and club man. A career in coaching that spans 2 decades shows the spirit that Vic Robinson brought to this club.

Tracy Scrutton - Inducted 2012

A veteran centre of 219 WNBL Games and a well over a decade of State league games, championships and awards, Tracy held the Lady Bearcats together during the formative WNBL years and played a vital role in steering the club to the 1986 WNBL Grand Final. A three time Premiership player in 1987, 92 & 93, Tracy held played her role in one of the most successful periods in womens basketball in this state.

Anthony Spadavecchia - Inducted 2026

Anthony "Spud" Spadavecchia joined the Bearcats at just eight years old and went on to become the youngest inductee in the club’s Honour Roll. A standout junior who captained and won MVP of the final Under 20 Championship, earning three Adelaide 36ers Academy MVPs, back‑to‑back Bearcat Medals, and five State League Grand Final appearances. One of the youngest captains in State League history, he led West Adelaide for 11 of his 19 seasons, winning championships in 2017 and 2023 and playing more than 350 State League games - nearly 1,000 matches across his Bearcats career.

Fred Specht - Inducted 2012

Fred Specht may well be regarded as the man who put this club on the map. The clubs first ever coach and a man who led the men’s team to a staggering 4 championships in 5 years, 1948, 49, 51 & 52. Fred’s impact on West Adelaide in the formative years cannot be understated as he laid the foundation for success to follow. Fred stayed in basketball for many decades at other clubs and in administration but his heart belonged to the bearcats.

Kaye-Lee Stuart - Inducted 2012

Kaye-Lee started her career with the bearcats at the tender age of 5. A 3 time Championship player in 1987, 92 & 93, Kaye-Lee made every state junior team whilst playing for the Bearcats, 8 of them in succession and was captain on every single occasion. Captain of the Australian National u/21 junior team, Kaye-Lee played the first of her 226 WNBL games at the age of 13, and was the first player in the WNBL to reach 200 games. An outstanding backcourt player in a powerful era for the bearcats, Kaye-Lee returned to the club as head coach for the women and won the 2022 state championship.

Russell Terrett - Inducted 2026

Russell Terrett’s four decades of service shaped junior development, strengthened club governance and helped elevate women’s basketball, including playing a key role in establishing the Adelaide Lightning during his presidency. A Life Member since 1979 and recipient of the Australian Sports Medal, Russell’s leadership and vision left a lasting legacy on both the Bearcats and basketball in South Australia.

Brian Williamson - Inducted 2026

Brian “Bear” Williamson has been a cornerstone of West Adelaide for more than forty years, serving as Senior Men’s Team Manager for 18 seasons and helping guide the club to three State League championships. He supported junior teams, refereed through the 80s and 90s, cooked BBQs, worked the canteen for over three decades and became synonymous with Sunday mornings at Port Adelaide and the famous “Bear’s Meat Tray”. A Life Member since 1999, Brian’s reliability, generosity and ever‑present commitment helped inspire the renaming of the Volunteer of the Year award in honour of him and Margaret - a reflection of the impact they’ve had on the Bearcats community.

Margaret Williamson - Inducted 2026

For over four decades, Margaret Williamson has been a pillar of the Bearcats community, serving on junior and senior committees, supporting families and later managing the WNBL program for an extraordinary 30 years through West Adelaide and Adelaide Lightning. A Life Member since 1999, Margaret remains one of Lightning’s most loyal supporters and a familiar face at NBL1 games. Her dedication, care and long‑standing service helped inspire the renaming of the Volunteer of the Year award in honour of her and Brian - recognising the profound legacy they share within the club.

Jack Wood - Indicted 2012

Jack Wood was an influential club stalwart for the best part of 30 years. Starting as a parent, Jack quickly became involved at Executive and Committee levels. But this was only a small part of Jacks involvement. Jack became a major behind the scenes supporter thru his local business, “Complete Meat and Poultry". Jack supported many import players over the years, Leroy Loggins, Al Green, Ken Richardson to name a few, providing them with furniture, household appliances etc, and a weekly supply of meat from the Family business. Jack supported the club through the NBL years and his loyalty to the Bearcats was unquestionable. Jack was honoured with a Certificate of Recognition to the sport (given by the Queen) in late 90's. But Jack’s involvement was also far more than just West Adelaide. He was on the BASA Executive committee, he was a State and Australian Referee in his early years, then Chairman of the referees' committee later on, Chairman of the Basketball SA Tribunal committee and a board member of the 36ers during the 1980’s.

John Wright - Inducted 2012

John Wright was lauded by Keith Miller in print as one of the finest Junior Coaches West Adelaide has ever produced. A tireless teacher of the game John Played and coached juniors for West for more than 20 years. He coached at every level from U/12 to U/20’s collecting multiple titles and State Championships along the way. John coached State juniors as well as being West Adelaide Youth league coach in 1982, a state junior ass coach U/18 & U/20, and Head Coach of the Combined SA DISTRICT u/12 & u/14 teams. John was also Ass coach to Ken Cole for the club in the NBL in 1984. John is credited with producing some of the clubs greatest players like Mike McKay, Peter Dawe, David Spear who all went on to play NBL for the club.