The City of Sydney Basketball Association (CSBA) family is mourning the passing of Life Member Terry Denzil whom passed away earlier this week.
Terry’s affiliation with basketball began at just twelve years of age at the local Pitt Street YMCA where he was discovered by Les Gough, and late CSBA life members Ken Harvey and Bob Staunton. When Alexandria Basketball Stadium was open to the public in 1968 Terry played in the Men’s competition with the YMCA and with another CSBA life member Charlie Ammit. Terry led his team to multiple State Championships and was selected to represent NSW at multiple National Championships.
With his playing days over Terry became a voice for the local community advocating tirelessly for nourishing schooling within the local area. When Cleveland Street High School, Redfern, Waterloo and Alexandria Public Schools all closed, it was Terry who led the charge as lead spokesperson. He petitioned relentlessly to the NSW Government, and as a result Alexandria Park Community School was built.
In 2022, in consultation with the local community Alexandra Park Community School name their newly built basketball gymnasium “The Denzil” in honour of Terry’s passion for basketball and education within the local area.
Throughout this time Terry also had strong ties to CSBA’s local competition, being a mentor, coach, friend, leader and Elder to many young Indigenous people within our community.
Earlier this year Terry was elected as CSBA’s newest Life Member with his name proudly displayed on our Life Members Board at Comets Stadium. He will be remembered by all for his amazing and tireless contribution, especially to the Indigenous community.
It is people like Terry who make a community special. On behalf of the City of Sydney Basketball Association and our families, we pass on our condolences and love to his son Shane and Daughter Meagan.
Funeral Details:
Service details are by Simplicity Newtown
Thursday, 20 July 2023 2:00 PM
South Chapel Eastern Suburbs Memorial Park, 12 Military Road Matraville
