The experienced Guernsey point guard has taken over as head men’s coach, shortly after the resignation of Adam Farish, a position he is ‘absolutely delighted and hugely proud’ to be in.
He now hopes to capitalise on his wealth of experience to restore Guernsey’s inter-insular winning ways – following their streak-ending loss in June – together with bringing them back into medal contention at Island Games level.
‘Guernsey continues to produce excellent talent, and the work being done through the Future Stars and junior programmes gives us a fantastic foundation,’ he said.
‘Although I am awaiting knee surgery and expect to be out of the game as a player for at least 18 months, this is a brilliant opportunity to stay involved with a squad I truly love and believe I can make a positive difference to.
‘I still have aspirations to play again one day, but coaching will come first.
‘If I do this job properly, the standard within the squad should be so high that I will have to earn my place all over again.’
Having once been that youngster working his way up through the ranks, Sawbridge said: ‘Basketball has been such a big part of my life since I first represented Guernsey at junior level aged 14, playing in the U17 and U21 inter-insulars against Jersey.’
He was fortunate to be coached by ‘Fez’ throughout that period – and to great effect.
‘We never lost a game under him,’ he added in a reminder of his predecessor’s success.
‘We would watch and play basketball constantly, while looking up to senior players such as Kerry Smyth, Jan Renouf and Jeff Stuart.’
Farish became Guernsey’s head senior men’s coach in January 2012 and, after an initial inter-insular loss, led the island to victory in every edition for more than a decade. He only stepped down last month after careful consideration.
Sawbridge was very much part of a remarkable run that also included reaching new heights at Island Games level.
In his own Games career, he represented Guernsey at Gotland 2017, Gibraltar 2019, and then on home soil in 2023.
Guernsey came one play-off win short of a medal in both Gotland and Gibraltar, but their 92-78 victory over Menorca in the 2019 quarter-finals proved a personal highlight.
‘We came up against established Island Games basketball nations such as Cayman, Bermuda and Menorca, teams who had often previously beaten Guernsey by 40 or 50 points.
‘In Gibraltar, however, we beat Menorca in a result that remains one of my proudest and most memorable moments in the green and white jersey.’
They placed fifth at Guernsey 2023, but the memories of competing at a packed ‘Beausie Dome’ will take some beating.
‘The Guernsey Games will always be my favourite basketball experience because of the incredible atmosphere and support the fans created.
‘I also played in senior inter-insulars and was MVP in my final match before injury, so I understand how much representing the island, particularly against Jersey, means to everyone involved.
‘I am excited by the prospect of bringing my own playing and coaching experience into the role and helping to build a squad capable of competing for medals again, while restoring real dominance on inter-insular days.’
While away from the island on his studies, Sawbridge continued to build his basketball ‘CV’.
He played point guard for Solent University in the BUCS League, which he combined with assistant coach responsibilities while completing his applied sports science coaching degree.
‘Reaching the Final 8s at the English Institute of Sport as part of that university basketball experience was unforgettable and showed me the standards required at a higher level.’
Even while unable to play due to injury, Sawbridge has utilised his coaching skills to help his domestic teams get the best out of their game.
The Guernsey Basketball Association welcomed his appointment in a social media post, highlighting not only his experience but the new ideas and fresh perspective he brings to the role.
‘We believe this is a fantastic appointment and have no doubt that Matt will develop the current squad and build a successful programme now and for the future,’ the GBA wrote.
Likewise, Sawbridge has thanked those that have supported him in his new ambition.
‘I am also extremely grateful for the support I have already received following the appointment.
‘There is a real wealth of experience within Guernsey basketball, and I know there are people I can draw upon for advice, different perspectives and honest challenge when needed.
‘That support, together with a shared commitment to the game, will be invaluable as we build the next chapter for the men’s team.’
