Keith Farmer, reigning National Volunteer Team Manager of the Year, is Chairman and U16 Boys Team Manager of Woking Blackhawks Basketball Club.

As Chairman, he ensures that the strategic direction of the Club supports its development and sustainability. And as a Team Manager, he provides the administration support to the u16 boys team (fixtures, kit, player contact, registrations etc.) to enable the Squads Coach to concentrate solely on the players' development.

Keith has been involved with the club for 5 years, since one of his sons decided to change sports from Football to Basketball and the club was looking for volunteers to help with administration.

He initiated the drive towards Clubmark as part of the clubs development plan and acted as the main co-ordinator of the club's file, liaising with the England Basketball Development team to help with the final submission.

In addition Keith also represents the club in its strong links with the NW Surrey Schools Sports Partnership, developing a number of primary and secondary school programmes to encourage young children to take part in the sport through coaching and taster sessions.

Keith feels that the status and re-assurance of Clubmark has allowed the club to work closely with local authorities and schools, leading to an increase in junior members. This year for example it has entered new under 10 boys and girls teams into local competitions.

He said, "We knew that achieving Clubmark would provide a solid platform on which we could build a sustainable club through increased junior membership and partnerships. What we did not expect is that the higher profile of the club in the local and national sports community would open up numerous other opportunities for development and funding. Without Clubmark we would not be where we are today."