COOPER-BROWN NOT RETURNING IN 2020
Nathan Cooper-Brown will not be returning as NBL1 Men’s Head Coach for season 2020. Cooper-Brown has accepted a role in Basketball Victoria’s High Performance department as well as continuing his position with the Under-17 Crocs team.
The Sabres NBL1 Men had an incredibly difficult year in 2019, with injuries and other commitments plaguing the season. The team finished in 18th position with a 5-15 record. Cooper-Brown, known for developing young talent, guided the emergence of Sabres juniors Kingsley Box and Nic Gabsch to strong seasons.
We would like to thank Cooper-Brown on his efforts as part of the SBA senior men’s program, and wish him nothing but the best in the future.
Read Nathan Cooper-Brown’s message to the SBA community below:
It has been an incredible learning experience being able to return to my junior club in charge of the senior men’s program in 2019. And I am saddened to have to say goodbye after only one season.
It was fantastic to be involved in the inaugural NBL1 season, and I can see that league continuing to become a fantastic pathway opportunity for talented Australian athletes and coaches.
2019 was the most turbulent and misfortunate I’ve ever experienced, with a cavalcade of injuries/issues derailing the season, it provided myself, the staff and the athletes a multitude of situations that were character building, frustrating and rewarding all at the same time. It’s definitely an experience that I know will make me a better coach, and person, in the long run. And I have sincere thanks to all involved for their support and efforts.
I depart the position to focus on my roles as Basketball Victoria High Performance Coach – Country Men, and my current campaign with the U17 Australian Men’s National Team. I am incredibly lucky to pursue my career in those two roles, but it is with a heavy heart I leave behind some wonderful young athletes and people at the Southern Sabres, as they strive for improvement in 2020. I wish the club and whomever takes over the role nothing but the best.