Local People: Luke Rosendale

by James Marsten

Echuca-raised basketballer Luke has swapped the Melbourne courts for Hobart, and if his enthusiasm for his new home is anything to go by, this may be just the beginning of his Tasmanian story

Where did you grow up and where do you live now? I grew up in Echuca, Victoria. A small country town on the border of Victoria and New South Wales. I now live in Hobart.

What work do you do? Currently, I am a professional basketball player.

How did you get into basketball? Were you a multi-sport kid growing up or focused on basketball? I first started playing basketball because my older brother started to play. Being the younger brother I was just following him around. I tried all different spots when I was growing up. Tennis, AFL, cricket and soccer were all the other sports I tried.

How would you describe your game style? I would describe my game as relentless and passionate.

What drew you to the Hobart Chargers for this NBL1 season after playing with South East Melbourne for NBL26? There were a few reasons. One was getting out of my comfort zone in Victoria and testing myself in a new place. The other reason would be Coach Weeks. Such a knowledgeable former player who had a great career and has already helped me improve my game.

How have you found the transition from Melbourne to Hobart, both on and off the court? It’s been a very simple transition both on and off the court. On the court the team has embraced me and instilled nothing but confidence in myself. Off the court Hobart is such a beautiful city which has so much character. It’s been a joy to be able to explore more and more.

As a free agent, speculation about your future is natural – is a move to the JackJumpers on the cards? Free agency is something that is always a mental challenge. Trying to make sure I’m focused on the important things/ things I can control. The JackJumpers would be a great opportunity for me but for the moment, all I can control is giving my best effort for the Chargers and I believe positive things will follow if I do that.

While you’re here, you’re running a series of junior basketball clinics. How does it feel to coach rather than be coached? I enjoy being a coach. It gives me the opportunity to pass some of my knowledge down to the next generation of basketballers. I always enjoy seeing those who just enjoy playing the sport I love without any pressure of performance. They just enjoy playing and it’s a reminder of why I started.

What’s something you wish more people knew about you? I enjoy going on walks with a coffee, being outside and whether it’s just me or with friends, I always enjoy it.

Who do you admire? I admire my mother. Her work ethic and generosity with her time for others has been something I’ve strived to emulate.

Favourite podcast or tv show? Hamish & Andy is my favourite podcast. There was a lot of travel involved in junior basketball which involved me being in the car in the afternoons when it was on. I really enjoy the comedy and light hearted feel to the show.

Secret vice? I do really enjoy a nap on the days I am able to have one!

What are you reading now? I’m currently reading None of This is True by Lisa Jewell.

What was your first job? My first job was a basketball referee.

What are your daily news/social media habits? The majority of my social media usage would be Instagram. I am able to message group chats and get any daily updates I need from there.

Your favourite place for…

Breakfast: Leoht

Lunch: The Salty Dog

Dinner: Fellini

Coffee shop: Parklane Espresso

Dream holiday destination? Iceland has always been a dream destination. It’s one of the most peaceful countries in the world and has an abundance of beautiful scenery.

Favourite Tasmanian secret? I wouldn’t say it’s a secret but the Botanical Gardens are amazing. I thoroughly enjoy going for a walk through the gardens.

Parting words? I am yet to experience all of Hobart and surrounding areas as much as I would like, but Hobart has been one of my most memorable experiences in my life. I think those who live here are very spoilt with all that it has to offer.

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Extras

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