Turton departs Gators

Josh Turton. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 424321_07

Outgoing Altona Gators men’s coach Josh Turton has left a winning legacy for the club’s men’s Big V program.

The Gators announced that Turton wouldn’t continue next season after three years at the club.

“Altona Gators would like to thank Josh Turton for his service to the Altona senior men’s program the last three seasons,” the club said on social media.

“Josh began as the bench coach for the senior men in 2022, then became the head coach in 2023.

“As the head coach Josh guided the men to the club’s first ever championship for a senior men’s team at Altona in a thrilling victory over the Whittlesea Pacers.

“The win saw the men’s team promoted to division 1 where Josh guided the team to another finals berth in 2024.

“Josh has left a winning legacy and great culture in the men’s program during his time at Altona. We are grateful to Josh for his dedication and enthusiasm.”

The Gators won their first final this year before the season came to an end at the hands of the Whittlesea Pacers in the semi finals.

Speaking with Star Weekly after the loss, Turton said the side had probably overachieved this season.

“We were happy to be there,” he said. “They were coming off a game they should have won.

“The main talking point for us before the season was to continue building and rebuilding the culture.

“Making finals was a bonus. We don’t have the big budget as other teams and have a negative budget with players having to pay fees.

“There’s such a good culture and we have achieved so much in the last two years which is fantastic.”