Cairns Basketball Inc. this week announced the resignation of General Manager Luca Vergari, who will take up the role of General Manager with Logan Thunder Basketball Association.

Since joining Cairns Basketball, Luca Vergari has played a pivotal role in strengthening the association both on and off the court. His leadership has helped grow participation, strengthen commercial partnerships, enhance governance and elevate the profile of the association across Far North Queensland. Under his guidance, Cairns Basketball has continued to build strong foundations for long-term success while expanding opportunities for players, coaches, officials and volunteers.

Cairns Basketball Board President Chris Van Dorssen thanked Luca for his outstanding contribution to the association.

“Luca’s passion, professionalism and commitment to our basketball community have left a lasting legacy. He has led our association through a period of significant growth and has built strong relationships with our members, sponsors, volunteers and the wider community.”  

“While we are naturally disappointed to see him leave, we fully support the opportunity he has taken up with Logan Thunder.”

“On behalf of the Board, I sincerely thank Luca for everything he has contributed to Cairns Basketball and wish him every success in this exciting next chapter.”

Luca said accepting the position with Logan Thunder had been one of the most difficult decisions of his career.

“Leaving Cairns Basketball is incredibly bittersweet. This association is my home, and over the past few years it has become so much more than just a workplace – it has become family. The relationships I’ve built with our Board, staff, players, coaches, officials, volunteers, sponsors and members are something I’ll cherish forever.”

“This is the next step in my career, especially with all the activity and opportunity available in the South-East Queensland basketball community.”

“That said, this decision certainly wasn’t easy. I leave with immense pride in what we’ve achieved together and complete confidence that Cairns Basketball has an incredibly bright future.”

“I’ll always be a passionate supporter of this association, and no matter where my career takes me, Cairns Basketball will always hold a special place in my heart.”

Chris Van Dorssen said the Board was confident the association was well positioned for continued success.

“Luca leaves Cairns Basketball in a very strong position. We have an outstanding team, a committed Board, passionate volunteers and an engaged basketball community that continues to grow.”

“The Board will now commence recruitment for a new General Manager, and we are excited to build on the strong foundations Luca has helped establish. While we’ll miss Luca’s leadership, we know he’ll continue to make a significant impact down south, and we wish him and his family every success.”

Cairns Basketball Inc. extends its sincere gratitude to Luca Vergari for his leadership, professionalism and service to the association and wishes Luca and his family every success as they begin this exciting new chapter with Logan Thunder Basketball Association.