The Castec Rural Pioneers have appointed a new men’s head coach following the departure of long-time coach Richard Hill last month.
The Pioneers this week announced the appointment of Pete Godfrey as head coach on a three-year deal, ahead of the 2026 NBL1 South season.
Godfrey arrives in Mount Gambier with an extensive and decorated coaching career spanning nearly two decades across NBL1 South, Big V, elite school programs, and academy development.
Most recently, he served as Associate Head Coach of the Waverley Falcons (NBL1 South 2025), while also leading top-tier school programs as Head Coach of Ivanhoe Grammar First Boys (AGSV) and Head Coach of Wesley College First Boys (APS).
In addition, he continues to contribute to player development through his role with the Melbourne United Academy (2023-present).
Godfrey is best known for his impactful tenure at the Kilsyth Cobras, where he was part of the senior coaching staff for over a decade.
From 2006 to 2013, he served as an assistant coach in the SEABL, before stepping into the head coach role from 2020 to 2024 in NBL1 South.
Across both eras of the competition, Godfrey helped guide Kilsyth to consistent finals campaigns and was recognised as 2022 NBL1 South Coach of the Year.
His coaching résumé also includes head coach of the Hawthorn Magic (Big V State Championship, 2017- 2019); head coach at Keilor Thunder (Big V Division 1, 2016), and head coach of the Kilsyth Cobras Youth Championship and U20 Men (2013-2015).
Along the way, Godfrey has been awarded multiple coaching honours, including 2022 NBL1 South Coach of the Year, 2018 Big V State Championship Coach of the Year, 2016 Basketball Victoria Coach of the Year and 2015 and 2014 Big V Youth Championship Coach of the Year.
Pioneers President Tom Kosch said Godfrey’s appointment marks an exciting new era for the club.
“Peter’s appointment is a reflection of the success and experience he’s had as a head coach in the NBL1 South,” Kosch said.
“He’s got the runs on the board, and we’re proud to announce him as the 11th coach to lead our men’s program.
“We’re excited to welcome Peter to Mount Gambier and the Pioneers.
“His values align with ours and he is looking forward to connecting with our community and continuing the Pioneer Passion.
“As a club, we enter a new and exciting chapter for the Pioneers as we continue to drive Mount Gambier forward as a destination for aspiring athletes and their development within the NBL1 South.”
Godfrey said he is looking forward to the opportunity.
“The Pioneers are a powerhouse in NBL1 South on and off the court, which makes joining the organisation as the next head coach an absolute privilege,” he said.
“The legacy left by Coach Hill is second-to-none, I intend to do everything I can to honour and build on that.
“My sincere thanks to Tom Kosch and the Pioneers Board for the opportunity.
“I am looking forward to getting down to work with the team and attacking season 2026.”
