ASPIRE ~ BELIEVE ~ ACHIEVE
Meet The Team
Ty Burnett - Head Coach
Having honed his skills at national league across Suffolk and East London in addition to years of local league and multiple 3x3 tournaments, Ty brings a wealth of playing experience to the table. As a Level 2 qualified basketball coach, he is committed to nurturing talent and fostering a love for the sport at all levels.
Ty's youth coaching journey extends far and wide, having assisted with national coaching and leading county coaching multiple times. Additionally, he has coached Division 1 men's local league teams for years, where he has been able to instil cultures of competition and togetherness while supporting the teams towards their season goals.
Beyond the court, Ty holds Qualified Teacher Status, amplifying his ability to mentor and educate aspiring athletes. His sports coach experience in schools across Ipswich underscores his commitment to holistic development, instilling values of discipline, teamwork, and resilience in the next generation of players.
Emily Kenny - Club Secretary and Treasurer
Emily is our Club Secretary and Treasurer. Emily is a qualified Educational Psychologist with qualified teaching status. With a Doctorate in Educational Psychology, Emily brings a deep understanding of child development and mental wellbeing to the club. Emily's passion for the sport shines through in her commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive environment for players of all ages.
Tom Franklin - Assistant Coach
Donnah James - Team Manager
Colin Branch - Club Welfare Officer
My journey began in the Army, where I served for 14 years with the 1st Battalion, The Royal Anglian Regiment, deploying to operational theatres including Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Croatia, and Afghanistan. Sadly, an injury during service led to a medical discharge and, after several surgeries, the loss of my leg above the knee.
Leaving the Armed Forces, I became a foster carer, which opened my eyes to the challenges and rewards of supporting young people. I went on to work in statutory and educational services, specialising in welfare, behaviour support, and safeguarding for both children and adults at risk. Later, I led welfare and safeguarding services at Help for Heroes, managing a team supporting veterans and their families nationwide. I now serve as Head of Welfare Support at Blesma, leading on complex welfare matters and acting as the charity’s Designated Safeguarding Lead.
At Aspire Basketball Club, I am passionate about ensuring every young person feels safe, supported, and able to thrive. I believe every child deserves a positive environment to enjoy sport and develop their potential. My own experiences have taught me the value of resilience, empathy, and community—qualities I bring to my role every day. I am always approachable and proactive, ready to listen and help, and remain deeply committed to the welfare and safeguarding of all our members.
Emma Barnes - Club Socials Officer
I’m a proud mum of three wonderful boys who inspire everything I do. Much of my working life has revolved around them — from hospitality and driving to community-focused roles — allowing me to be present for my family while staying active and engaged.
I’ve always been someone people turn to for support and a listening ear. Growing up, I naturally took on the role of the protector among my friends and remain deeply devoted to my family and community. I believe in kindness, compassion, and helping others whenever I can.
Having been so involved with my sons sporting journeys I have gained years of experience seeing firsthand what it takes to support team cohesion. This has sparked a passion for community and within this role I am determined to ensure that all members of the club feel at home and valued within the team.