THE good news continues to roll in for the Mount Gambier Pioneers, since its acceptance into the Basketball Victoria NBL1 competition for 2020 back in October.
Player signings for both the men’s and women’s teams have come as welcome announcements, as the club breathes a sigh of relief following a roller-coaster 16 months.
And now with the news of the men’s naming rights sponsor – Castec Rural Supplies – on board for their 10th consecutive year, the club appears in a strong position moving forward.
For club president Tom Kosch, he is excited by the year ahead.
“It is hard to believe 12 months ago – almost to the day – we were given a lifeline by SA Premier League and its clubs to compete in 2019,” he said.
“It was an outstanding year for the club thanks to the hard work of our board, our players and coaches and everyone involved in the club.
“It has been a tough slog and our news of entry into NBL1 has been a relief.”
The relationship with the Basketball SA Premier League this year allowed the Pioneers to introduce a women’s team and potentially stay alive as a club.
However, the arrangement was never to be long term and the Pioneers will now look to make their mark on Australia’s premier winter competition.
“It has been a great experience for our club to play in the SA Premier League last season and the step up to NBL1 will be an exciting challenge for both our teams,” Kosch said.
“We are really looking forward to getting started in April.”
NBL1 will tip off mid-April, which provides plenty of time for both men’s and women’s teams to fill their rosters and prepare for the challenge that awaits.
Finances will also be managed during this time, as the club will be required to compensate towards travel costs for the Victorian teams coming to Mount Gambier for Pioneers home games, similar to the arrangement with the Premier League last season.
However, Kosch said all the correct procedures have been put in place to ensure the club remains sustainable.
The added support of sponsors, members and the wider community has been invaluable during the club’s tough journey to this point and Kosch is grateful for all those involved.
“The support of Castec Rural Supplies in their 10th year as the naming right partner for our men is just tremendous,” he said.
“They are an extremely generous family and we could not be more thrilled to have them on board for another two years.”
Pioneers fans are encouraged to watch this space, with new player signings and announcements expected in the early stages of 2020.
“Our men’s and women’s teams are both taking shape,” Kosch said.
“We will have some announcements in the early part of next year.”
