The Mount Gambier Pioneers have laid the foundations for their 2023 NBL1 season, confirming the re-signing of coach Richard Hill.

Hill is the most successful coach in Pioneer history and the club is excited he will continue as head coach.

President Tom Kosch said having Hill recommit for 2023 was massive for the planning and shaping of the club’s programs for next season.

In the 2022 NBL1 South season, the Castec Rural Pioneers had a successful season winning 18 and losing seven before finishing the season as runners-up.

“Currently, the focus is on the development and retention of our player group, we will then look to add what we need around that to further strengthen our roster,” Kosch said.

Hill joined the Pioneers in 2012 and has led Mount Gambier’s men’s program to five conference and three national championships over his time as head coach.

Hill said committing to the Pioneers for 2023 was easy as the team has unfinished business following the loss in the 2022 NBL1 South Grand Final.

“Being involved with a club where the board, our sponsors, fans and the community are tremendously supportive makes being part of the Pioneers a special experience,” he said.

“After a successful 2022 I am excited by our prospects for 2023.

“I am extremely keen to continue to work with this player group – the group continues to improve, and I am excited to see how much more improvement we can have from within.”

The club will announce returning players and new signings for 2023 in the coming weeks.