Ken Clifford

Chief Executive Officer
Ken has been the driving force behind the Hunter Academy of Sports success since 1987. A former Science Teacher and School Sport Coordinator, Ken has also refereed Basketball at National and International level.

Ken has extensive experience over the years in various positions on boards and committees.  Some of these positions include former President of Newcastle Basketball; Vice President of Hunter Region School Sports Association; Hunter Region Cricket Convenor; Life Member of Hunter Region School Sports Association; President and Life Member of Newcastle District Cricket Association.

In 2009 Ken was recognised for his service to sport when he was awarded the Commonwealth Government Sports Recognition Medal.  A highlight of Ken’s career was when he was awarded a place in the top 40 Oceania Basketball contributors joining the likes of Andrew Gaze and many others.

Dan Marsden

Operations Manager
A dual Olympian and former captain of the Australian men's water polo team, Dan is an accomplished sportsman, coach and sports administrator with more than 25 years experience in elite sport.  Dan has held a number of senior sports management positions, including being a Senior Sports Consultant at the Australian Sports Commission and  CEO of Australian University Sport.

Natasha Van Eldik

Administration Assistant
Natasha joined the Hunter Academy of Sport team in March 2011. Natasha was a former member of the Academy’s Lawn Bowls squad. During her time as a squad member, she represented Australia at the 2010 Commonwealth Games. Natasha’s Lawn Bowls career continues to flourish.