Remembering James Dowdeswell

It is with deep sadness that the club said goodbye to one of its longest serving supporters this summer.

James Dowdeswell originally brought his 6 year old daughter, Jess, to the club 20 years ago. He attended every training session with her, sometimes accompanied by wife Jo and younger son Fin.

As Jess developed into a national league player he transported her to all her fixtures, from Juniors, to National League and then latterly to Women’s League events. He got to know all the other parents and those from other clubs and was a keen supporter of the game, club and Jess.

When Jess left the club to go to University, younger brother Fin continued the tradition of playing with Comets (formerly CWBA) and James was still there as chauffeur and cheerleader.

Diagnosed with a brain tumour in early 2026, James insisted that Fin carry on with his basketball.

Following James' passing, his family chose to support Comets in his memory in recognition of the club's importance to him and his family. Over £1800 was raised by his friends and family, which will be used to support the extra training sessions for our top National League players this season.

We will miss seeing James at our games and always remember him as our greatest supporter.