In a new feature, we sit down with some of our amazing FIMBA GB Family members and discuss their basketball journey, life in general understand why they still love playing basketball. First up is +65 Men player, Kevin Alderson.
Name: Kevin Alderson Age: 68 (born October 1956) Location: Boston Spa, Yorkshire
Playing History
I first learned to play basketball at secondary school in Leeds and took part in the English Schools tournament, reaching the North regional final before losing to a team from Middlesbrough. While I played a little at Bristol University, I focused more on football during that time.
At 24, I returned to basketball in the local Bristol league, which led to playing in the Southern League in Bath and later the National League with Swindon. After moving to London in 1985, I tried out for Hemel Royals and played National League basketball with them for several seasons. I also played in the Middlesex League for Brunel Ducks and the Herts League for Stevenage.
Following my time at Hemel, I joined Chiltern and continued playing in the National League, including one season at the age of 40. A job move brought me north, where I continued to play for local Leeds League teams—Trinity and All Saints, Knaresborough Royals, and most recently Harrogate Raiders—until I “retired” at age 60 (2016/17 season).
Despite this so-called retirement, I’ve continued to play Masters basketball at various tournaments. My wife Lynda—also a FIMBA basketballer—introduced me to FIMBA, and I attended trials in Manchester ahead of the Malaga tournament, where I was selected for the O60s squad. After the COVID break, I eventually represented FIMBA O60s in Malaga and Albufeira, and the O65s in Pesaro and Locarno.
Occasionally, I still suit up for Harrogate Raiders when “needs must”! Officially retiring at 60 now feels a little fraudulent—but I’m glad for it!
Career, Interests & Family
Now very happily retired, I spent over 40 years in sales roles across various computer and communications companies. For the final 18 years of my career, I served as Sales and Marketing Director for Tunstall, a Yorkshire-based manufacturer of social alarm systems—those red-button phones used by the elderly to call for help. It was fulfilling and meaningful work, and I’m proud to have finished my career helping to save lives.
I live with my wife Lynda, and we have two daughters, Grace and Emily. My main interests now revolve around health and wellbeing. I play a lot of golf, cycle, run, and do strength training, and I continue to train regularly with Harrogate Raiders.
Outside of sport, I’m an avid reader—mainly history and historical fiction—and I usually have at least two books on the go. Lynda and I are making the most of retirement by travelling whenever we can and enjoying village life, where we’ve lived for nearly 30 years and built many close friendships.
Why I Still Play Basketball & Masters
I keep playing because I still can—which amazes me every day! It feels almost ridiculous to be able to play such a fast, physical sport at my age, but I’m deeply grateful for it. Masters basketball, and FIMBA in particular, has been a wonderful motivation to stay fit and keep going.
Why wouldn’t I want to represent my country on an international stage? It’s an incredible bonus that has added a whole new dimension to my life in Masters sport. FIMBA has kept my enthusiasm for basketball alive, strengthened my commitment to fitness, and quite possibly extended my life.
Team sports have always provided the structure and motivation I need—I never want to let my teammates down. And just as important, they’ve brought fantastic camaraderie and joy. The FIMBA teams are no different: great people, great fun, and a great reason to keep going as long as possible.
Thank you, FIMBA GB!
