Mackay Basketball CEO says goodbye, but not farewell

Jason Borg has stepped down from his role at Mackay Basketball after three and a half years

Outoing Mackay Basketball CEO Jason Borg says a return to basketball will be through volunteering and coaching. Photo: Trudi Jensen / Mackay Basketball

AFTER undoubtedly the most difficult nine months of his professional basketball life, outgoing Mackay Basketball CEO Jason Borg is ready to throw his Jordans up the telephone pole.

Mackay Basketball today confirmed Borg would stand down from his role as chief executive officer and general manager on December 16, after three and a half years at the helm.

Borg helped steer the ship through one of the toughest periods the organisation has ever had to endure, as coronavirus forced the cancellation of competitions and key employees had to stand down.

In March this year, a shattered Borg spoke of the emotional toll the cancellation of the inaugural NBL1 North competition had on those involved in the Mackay Meteors and Meteorettes programs.

“It’s tough to stand in front of people and take away something that they love. Even though you know you’re doing it for the right reasons, it’s extremely difficult,” he said in March.

Borg recalled the “long arguments, late nights and early mornings” of months gone by, as the organisation worked to lift itself out of a virus crisis.

“Because of COVID we lost the better part of four months,” he said.

“As any community sporting club will tell you, you earn zero income while shut – but the bills are still there.

“But we’ve managed to pull through and come out the other side strong. Our membership numbers are up from pre-COVID.”

Fast-forward to December, and with key input from Borg, Mackay Basketball is celebrating dual ConocoPhillips CQ Cup successes for the Meteors and Meteorettes.

Outoing Mackay Basketball CEO Jason Borg.

Mackay Basketball Stadium has also played host to a highly successful junior state championship and, most recently, welcomed the WNBL to town for opening night of the unique north Queensland hub season.

“All of that was compressed into a short period of time and it was a lot of hard work – and long hours – by our staff and volunteers. I’m pretty proud of everyone for how it all worked out,” Borg said.

It is with those fond memories front and centre that Borg signs off – but he won’t be lost to the game.

“A lot of people have told me ‘oh, it’s sad you’re leaving’, but I’m not leaving,” he promised.

“I’m leaving the role, but I won’t be a stranger down there. I’m a life member of the club. I still love the game. That’s what I want to get back to – the game itself.

“My passion is the game. In my role I couldn’t coach teams, so after I have a rest that’s something I would like to do.”

Borg is unsure what his next professional step will be, but for the moment he is OK with not knowing.

“I've worked 29 years straight. Never had long service. I finish one job and go to the next the very next day. I need a rest,” he said.

“My wife and I have decided we’ll have a bit of a break; do a bit of travelling, in Australia.

“We’ve said we’ll jump in the car and see where it takes us.”

Mackay Basketball has begun the search for a new GM.

Subscriber benefits:

Your dose of Harry Bruce cartoons

Five ways to get more from your digital subscription

Originally published as