Sue Pene

Basketball in Rotorua would not look the way it does today without Sue Pene. For more than 50 years, Sue Pene has dedicated her life to the game of basketball. As a player, coach, referee, administrator and mentor, she has helped shape the sport in Rotorua and throughout New Zealand, creating opportunities for generations of players, coaches, referees and volunteers.

Sue's basketball journey began in 1975 when she was asked to fill in for a friend in a local league game. What started as a favour quickly became a lifelong passion.

Over the years, Sue represented a number of regions throughout New Zealand, including Counties, North Shore, Wellington, Wanganui, Marton and Rotorua. She also competed in the Women's National League, developing a deep understanding of the game from the perspective of both player and leader.

While her playing achievements were significant, it is Sue's contribution off the court that has left an enduring legacy.

As a coach, Sue has worked with athletes of all ages, from primary school teams, New Zealand U16 Girls and Emerging Tall Ferns. In 2007, she became a FIBA Accredited Coach, recognising her commitment to coaching excellence and ongoing development.

Many people in our basketball community first experienced the game through programmes that Sue helped create. In 1993, alongside Carol Hulton, she helped establish Rotorua's first Miniball competition at the Bainbridge Centre. What began as a small junior competition has grown into a thriving pathway that has introduced thousands of young people to basketball.

Sue has also contributed as a referee, qualifying in 1988 and officiating at national championships and international fixtures. Her experience across playing, coaching and officiating has given her a unique perspective on the game and a deep appreciation for every role within it.

Beyond the court, Sue has spent decades helping grow basketball through leadership and development roles. She served on basketball committees in both Whanganui and Rotorua, helped establish junior competitions, worked as Basketball New Zealand's Interim National Player Development Officer, and served as Rotorua Basketball Development Officer from 2008 to 2023.

At the heart of everything Sue does is a simple belief:

When you see a need, try to do something about it.

She believes basketball is about far more than winning games. It is about developing confidence, resilience, teamwork, leadership and respect, qualities that stay with people long after the final whistle.

Sue's contribution has been recognised through numerous awards, including the Basketball New Zealand Zena Gay Memorial Award for her outstanding contribution to women's basketball, the Zonta Women's Achievement Award, multiple Rotorua Coach of the Year awards, and recognition for her service to basketball through the Te Arawa Sports Awards.

While the awards are impressive, Sue's greatest achievement is the impact she has had on people. Her guidance, encouragement and commitment have helped shape countless basketball journeys across our community.

Today, Sue remains one of the most respected figures in New Zealand basketball, and Rotorua Basketball Association is proud to continue benefiting from her knowledge, experience and passion for the game.

For many in Rotorua, Sue Pene isn't just part of basketball history, she helped write it.