Connor Coll will line up for his fourth season with the SIT Zero Fees Southland Sharks, this week signing on for the 2020 Sal’s NZ NBL campaign.
Coll has been one of the stand-out performers during the SIT-sponsored Sharks Summer League, averaging over 24 points and 12 rebounds per game playing for one of the two local sides and it is that output, along with his work ethic and attitude that has caught the eye of new Head Coach Rob Beveridge.
“I love the way Connor has stepped up and the increased leadership role we have seen from him during Summer League. He’s earned his spot by putting in the work and he has really thrown himself into this pre-season so it’s great to see young guys being rewarded for all that hard work,” Beveridge said.
“I am really pleased to have the opportunity to help further develop his game in the upcoming season. Connor is again going to be surrounded by some very good players that will challenge him and help take his game to another level,” he said.
Coll himself has also recognised the importance of stepping up leading in to this year’s NBL season.
“The Summer League has been great. Dunedin and Central have come down and they’ve been tough. We’ve got a lot of young guys who are developing so it’s been great to get out on court and help them and be a leader out there as well.”
“I’ve been in the Sharks for a few years now, so I need to take more of a leadership role and I’ve got some experience under my belt now,” Coll said.
“I’m definitely aiming for more court time. My job is to get stuck in and compete and when I get a chance to grab it. I have had some conversations with Bevo and it’s an amazing opportunity for me and all of the boys to play under him. I can’t wait to get started.”
The Sharks squad officially assembles in Invercargill on Monday 23 March with the Sal’s NBL tipping off on Thursday 9 April. The Sharks start on the road against the Franklin Bulls on Friday 10 April with the first home game against the Manawatu Jets on Friday 24 April.
VIP and Season Tickets to all nine Sharks’ home games are available now from ILT Stadium Southland.