The men’s basketball club at the University of Chichester has strengthened its coaching line-up ahead of the new season by appointing former Worthing Thunder Head Coach Gary Smith.
The University of Chichester Thunder narrowly missed out on promotion in their debut season in Division 4 South West of the National League. With Gary’s experience of winning two Division 1 titles with Worthing Thunder, it is hoped this will give the University squad the push it needs to move into higher divisions.
The University of Chichester Thunder narrowly missed out on promotion in their debut season in Division 4 South West of the National League. With Gary’s experience of winning two Division 1 titles with Worthing Thunder, it is hoped this will give the University squad the push it needs to move into higher divisions.
Talking about his appointment, Gary said: “I’m excited to be coaching the University of Chichester Thunder, and looking forward to strengthening our links with Worthing Thunder and our partners in the Sussex community as well as developing new links.
“The priority is to get promoted to Division 3 and see where this will take us.”
Despite missing out on promotion, the University of Chichester Thunder won 13 out of its 16 matches during last season. University student Bud Johnston was also awarded the English Basketball Division 4 Player of the Season accolade, which led to his selection for the English University Men’s Squad in the British University Games. Therefore, Gary has a strong base in which to build from.
Sid Fletcher, Sports Development Manager for the University of Chichester Students’ Union, said: “I am delighted that Gary is joining our coaching set-up to work alongside Emmanuel Davies and Dan Hills. Gary’s extensive experience of winning titles in Division 1 with Worthing Thunder will be a huge asset as we look to gain promotion this season and continue to develop our programme.
“It is an exciting time for basketball here at the University. Off the court, we are continuing to develop our partnership with BBL club Worthing Thunder and the wider community. Aside from on the court success, the programme here is focused on developing and enhancing basketball players, providing National League experience to some of the young talented players in Sussex, and extending the opportunities available in Higher Education.”
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