The Auckland Tuatara will begin their fourth season competing in the Sal’s NBL on Saturday night when they host the Franklin Bulls at Eventfinda Stadium.
Their fourth attempt comes with some significant change for the organisation, who have appointed just their second coach in history in the form of ex-player Cam Gliddon and a brand-new management line-up to support him.
Gliddon, who played the past two seasons with the Tuatara, has long been considered a future head coach. He brings first-hand knowledge of the franchise with him and the support of his players.
Joining him in the coaching group is former Franklin Bulls assistant, and Sacred Heart College basketball mentor Sione Maama and ex-player and assistant with the Otago Nuggets and Bulls Justin Bailey. Bailey is currently at Long Bay College, teaching and heading up their basketball program.
Martin Gan, from Dilworth College, provides analysis and technical support.
Duncan Drysdale from TBI Health has been appointed as the team physio for the season while Vernel Sarmago serves as the franchise’s S&C manager. Both men have made a big impact with the group in a short space of time.
The experienced Delwyn Whale takes over as manager of the side and will use her knowledge as an age group manager for Basketball New Zealand sides over the years.
She will be assisted by Auckland Grammar student Connor Clark while the experienced Dave Beattie will lend a hand with both managerial and physio duties during the season.
“I am delighted with the quality of the group we have put together to coach and manage our team this season,” Auckland Tuatara GM Dale Budge said.
“It is great to bring Cam into the coaching fold after his playing days with us while we are stoked to be able to give Sione, Martin and Vernel a more organised and formal role with us this season after they impressed volunteering last season.
“JB, Delwyn, Duncan and Connor have made a big impression since joining with us and I know that our team will be the most looked after in the competition with the quality of people around them.”