ON 18 May, Jersey Basketball lost one of their veteran players in Guillaume Hoareau, who tragically collapsed during the annual inter-insular, a contest in which the Jerseyman had featured in for north of a decade.
Although fully recovering from the loss is unlikely, the Jersey Basketball Association has pledged to make every effort to honour the memory of Hoareau and will endeavour to build on his lasting legacy.
The Islander, known as “G” among the association, was a Jersey Island Men’s Basketball team stalwart for almost 15 years, and he was also instrumental in championing the sport across all ages.
Hoareau was the Mini’s lead coach, where he inspired countless youngsters to hone their basketball talents and did so with a beaming smile.
The basketball star was a cornerstone of the sporting community in Jersey, with an unwavering passion to see his sport go from strength to strength.
After a period of mourning from the local basketball community, the JBBA has worked closely with the Hoareau family to understand how best they can devote their time and resources to honouring the Caesarean.
Upon discussions, the association has created the Guillaume Hoareau Legacy Fund, the proceeds of which will be used to develop the vision he had for Island basketball: “To develop the growth of basketball participation in Jersey, offer financial support for young players to develop their abilities – regardless of if they have the financial means to do so and to develop JBBA’s basketball connections between Jersey and regions further afield.”
Part of the mission will see the JBBA attempt to renovate and enhance the use of the basketball section of the Millennium Town Park, which will include the establishment of a memorial dedicated to Hoareau.
The JBBA have set up a JustGiving page, with a fundraising target of £25,000 to help them achieve their goals.
The outpouring from the local community has seen more than £7,000 raised so far in just a few weeks.
The JBBA stated that they were aware of the financial strain on Islanders at present, but urged the public to contribute what they can, regardless of how small the donation.
Donations can be made through the JBBA’s JustGiving page: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/jersey-basketball-association.
Meanwhile, businesses that might have additional budget for charitable support or good-will causes can get in touch with Cam Stables by emailing cam@park.je, or Paul Milbank at paul@basketball.je.
Hoareau had his time with Jersey Basketball cut far too short, but the association will ensure his vision and aspirations for the local game will live long into the future.
