The Castec Rural Pioneers have announced the re-signing of head coach Richard Hill for his 13th year at the helm.


Last month the Pioneers announced the re-signing of 2022 NBL1 South Women’s Coach of the Year Matt Sutton for the next three seasons.


And on Tuesday night the Pioneers confirmed the most successful coach in Pioneers history and the 2024 NBL1 South Men’s Coach of the Year Hill had re-signed for another season.


Club president Tom Kosch said the Pioneers Basketball Club Board was excited and delighted that both Sutton and Hill will continue in their head coach roles for 2025.


Kosch said that for Hill to recommit for 2025 was outstanding for the Pioneers’ planning and strengthening of its programs, ready to continue the club’s success in NBL1 South.


“Richard has given so much to our basketball club allowing us to proudly become one of the most successful regional sporting teams in Australia,” Kosch said.


In the recently concluded 2024 NBL1 South season, the Castec Rural Pioneers had a successful season, winning 17 and losing five, finishing the regular season on top of the table before being defeated in the semi final.


Hill became a Pioneer 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 2025 was easy as the team had “unfinished business” following the loss in the 2024 NBL1 South semi final.


“The support I have received from the Pioneers Board, my support staff and our great group of players ultimately made my decision to return for another season easy,” he said.


“After another successful 2024, I am excited by our prospects for 2025.


“I’m eager to continue my journey and get back to work with this tremendous club as we strive for the ultimate success.”


The club will make announcements about returning players and new signings for the 2025 season in the coming months.