On Saturday 1 March, Old Tonbridgian members of the School’s Basketball Club spanning the years 2008-2024 came together to celebrate the coaching career of Mat Parker. Mat, the School’s Commercial & Operations Director, retires from Tonbridge at the end of this academic year after 17 years of service.  Previously a basketballer himself, Mat arrived at the school in 2008 as the first manager of the not-yet-open Tonbridge School Centre, and immediately began offering above and beyond to the co-curricular life of the School as a basketball coach. During his tenure, the Club has grown in size and achieved notable successes, including back-to-back undefeated seasons and two overseas tours.

Saturday’s event saw two teams of Old Tonbridgians representing the years 2008-2018 and 2019-2024 face off against the School’s 1st team in a triangular tournament. The more recent Old Tonbridgians were crowned the winners.

Stefan Hargreaves, Housemaster of Manor House, said "it’s been brilliant working with Mat in the Basketball Club during my 15 years at the School, during which time he has selflessly given thousands of hours so that our boys can excel at the sport they love. Although Mat leaves the Club in a great place, an he will be much missed. It was really humbling to see so many Old Tonbridgians so eager to return to Tonbridge to pay tribute to Mat and to give him the send-off he undoubtedly deserves".

Mat moves with his wife, Soozi, to live in Cardiff, after his final day on Skinners’ Day, 5th July 2025.