Tara Murray
New Altona Gators coach Jordan Lino saw himself coaching once his playing days were over, but never thought he would be a player-coach.
Lino has been named playing-coach for the Big V division 2 side for this season, replacing Lanard Copeland.
Lino said when approached to take on the role, he wasn’t expecting it at all.
“It’s very exciting,” he said. “It was out of the blue.
“It was nice that [director of coaching] Randy Shanklin had the confidence in me and felt like I could do the role.
“I know the place, so I thought why not? Once I finished playing and I felt like the body was not at the level to continue to compete, I was interested in coaching.
“This has come quicker than I thought.”
Lino, who had been captain of the side the last couple of years, said the transition from player to playing-coach had been smooth so far.
He said having already got the respect and trust of the group helped with that.
“It’s all business when I’m the coach, but when I’m in the playing role, they know we can have a laugh.
“So far it has been easy to adjust.”
The signing of Lino had a flow on effect for the side, with many players who were unsure if they were coming back signed on.
He said they have a squad of 17 players, with many players returning from last season. Lino said at one point it didn’t look like they would get a side up.
Samson Rocker, Joseph Mausar and Thomas Georgiadis are among the key players who are returning.
TJ Remy is a strong point guard who has joined the club, as has Zac Polglaze.
“We’ve added some key players to replace those who have left,” Lino said.
“The team is filling out really well and we’ll be a bit more athletic and younger.”
Having been one of the top sides last season, which was called off early due to the pandemic, Lino said there was a sense of unfinished business.
“The boys have who come back expected greatness last year,” he said. “One of the other contenders has gone up divisions, without even facing us.
“There’s high expectations. Any other coach, it would be unrealistic to build on last season.
“Once all the new squad pieces we have added start to gel and get that chemistry, we’re pretty confident to be a contender this season.”
In a big upside for the Gators, they will have a new home court to play on, after massive renovations.
Lino said they haven’t had a chance to train on the court, but were excited to play on it.
“New stadium, new atmosphere and new vibe.”
