Staff in Focus

Inside the 'Department of Dreams' 

When he's not running the College's Specialised Basketball Program or teaching, coaching, umpiring and organising school sporting events, Mr Godfrey plays basketball - in front of thousands of spectators! 

St Norbert News: Congratulations on your recent 250th game for the Rockingham Flames, Mr Godrey. Talk us through your milestone match . . .

Ryan Godfrey: The atmosphere was insane. Coming out of the COVID lockdown and having to wear masks, we could only have 1000 people watching. Those 1000 were crazy about basketball and being the first home game of the year it was fantastic to be a part of. Unfortunately, we didn’t play very well that day so it wasn’t the ending we had hoped for but we have certainly improved to be one of the top teams in the NBL1 West.  There are always former students from the past few year groups coming down to Rockingham to watch and the support I have received from students is always a nice thing. It adds to the sense of community we have at St Norbert College. 

SNN: How did your love of basketball begin?

RG: I was born into basketball because my father always coached, so I didn’t think about anything else. Having coaches who challenged me to improve my skills is something I really enjoyed and then there were external influences like NBL & NBA - watching some incredible players and seeing their skill level always sparked my interest.

SNN: Who was your childhood basketball hero – and who is it now?

RG: I wouldn’t say I have one specific hero. I have looked up to so many people along my journey - plenty of exceptional coaches who never gave me anything easy and to a lot of basketball players who played before me. My heroes would be my parents for always challenging me, whether it was not I was making a team, not getting on the court or simply not being good enough. Their response was always 'What are you going to do about that?'. For that I am forever grateful because that is what ignited my mindset to put in the hard work and be able to travel the world playing basketball and represent my State and country on the global stage.

SNN: What was it like playing basketball in the US for the State University of West Georgia Wolves?

RG: A few words simply can’t explain it, but it was unreal and was integral in my growth as basketball player and a person. The basketball side was some of the most challenging aspects I have experienced. Every player on every team is really good so I had to offer something different to be a point of difference. Training seven days a week, for three hours a session, and then being expected to go to the gym and also do individuals  . . . it really tests you mentally and physically. Once it was game day however, they were the most incredible experiences. The college I was at used to attract about 10,000 people to a game and the entertainment and lightshow is something I still haven’t seen today. The atmosphere is something else and I would argue it is better than a NBA game.

SNN: All eyes will be on the Wildcats this weekend for the grand final series. Can the Cats carry out a three peat?

RG: Absolutely, the Wildcats are an unreal organisation led some great coaches. They are a more well-rounded unit, however they will have to be at the top of their game to ensure they are in a position to win.

SNN: Back to Treasure Road, and of what are you most proud about our Specialised Basketball Program (SBP)?

RG: The students. They are the integral part of the program. The progress that the program continually makes every year since I have been here has been unbelievable. The students generally want to get better and those who have made that commitment to the early-morning sessions will enjoy the rewards through the way they play the game of basketball.

SNN: SBP tryouts for 2022 start next Wednesday – what will you be looking for when choosing candidates?

RG: Plenty of factors that go into selecting a successful applicant. To name a few: a person who demonstrates a level of skill, a coachable attitude and positive learning habits.

SNN: Outside of basketball, what are your favourite participation and/or spectator sports?

RG: I can literally watch anything. Sports is normally the only thing on at home. As I still take basketball pretty seriously I try to look after the body so non-impact sport like golf is certainly something I enjoy when I’m not slicing into the houses or bushes near by.

SNN: What are the highlights for you on the extensive St Norbert College sporting calendar?

RG: Honestly, they are all highlights. There are so many opportunities for students to participate. Seeing students commit themselves to something and then enjoying the experience they have had makes it a highlight for me.

SNN: In three words, how would you describe working in our Physical Education Department? 

RG: Department of Dreams.

Mrs L Quartermain

(Community Relations and Marketing)