On behalf of the Cockburn Basketball Association (CBA) Board of Directors, I am thrilled to announce the appointment of Tia Ucich as our new Chief Executive Officer. The CBA is on a remarkable path of sustainable success across all areas of our operations, and Tia has distinguished herself as the ideal candidate to drive our organisation to even greater heights.
Tia is a familiar figure within the basketball community, having played 184 games of SBL/NBL1 basketball, where she captained both Lakeside and Joondalup. Her leadership on the court seamlessly extends into her professional career, with nearly a decade of experience in media, working with some of Australia’s largest radio stations and podcasting companies. Tia’s expertise in brand management, communications, stakeholder relations, and strategic execution represents a powerful combination of skills crucial for the next chapter of the CBA’s journey.
What stood out most during the selection process was Tia’s drive, passion, and ambition for basketball—qualities that mirror the energy and commitment we have come to admire in outgoing CEO, Tyrone Thwaites. This alignment of vision and values was a key factor in our decision to appoint Tia as the new leader of our community.
“I’m incredibly excited to join a basketball community that is thriving across the board and consistently punches above its weight,” Tia said.
“Cockburn has a proud history, which I have admired from afar, and I feel truly privileged to now be part of that legacy. I look forward to making a meaningful impact as a member of the community.”
“Tyrone has worked tirelessly to transform the CBA into a sustainable, high-performing organisation ready for its next evolution. I’m eager to contribute to our exciting future ahead, including the development of a new facility, and to collaborate with the staff, families, long-standing members, corporate partners, and the wider community to continue making the CBA a vital ‘third place’ in people’s lives,” she added.
Excitingly, Tia is the first woman to take a Chief Executive Officer role at a WA basketball association, something we are very proud of.
Tia will officially begin her role on October 22, and we are confident that her leadership, team-building skills, and genuine passion for the sport will ensure a smooth transition from outgoing CEO, Tyrone Thwaites. A relationship we expect will continue as Ty departs to his role as Chief Basketball Officer at Basketball WA.
During the week of October 14, Competitions and Programs Manager Melanie Rainey will serve as Acting CEO until Tia steps into the role.
Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Tia as she joins our Cougar family.
Travis French
President
Cockburn Basketball Association
