Thunder set for season opener

Hildreth, who enters his fourth season as head coach, sees his side open their campaign with an away trip to Westminster Warriors in the National Trophy on Saturday.

Last season was a little bit of a disappointment for Hildreth as his side ended the year without any silverware, although they did make the play-off quarter-finals, the semi-finals of the National Cup and last eight of the National Trophy.

This time around, Hildreth is hoping for a more successful season and said: “As I go into my fourth season, I am looking forward to the challenges ahead.

“Each year the league has become more evenly competitive and I would expect this season to be no different.

“After last season’s disappointment of not bringing home any silverware, we can reflect on areas of weakness and target these to move forward.

“In my opinion, the key to success and longevity is having continuity within a team.

“We have a large number of returning players and I think that bodes well for the coming season.”

Thunder will also be strengthened for the upcoming campaign with the returns of Jack Sunderland and Hank Rivers both confirmed ahead of Saturday’s game.

Hildreth believes the pair will be key figures and added: “The late addition of Hank is a god send.

“He is a guaranteed double-double, always respected and feared by each opponent.

“Visa issues may affect the first time we see him on the floor but when we do he is focused and wanting to return to the big games as he did three seasons ago.

“Jack will also be returning once again for the new season. His enthusiasm and work ethic always sparks the team.

“We are also hoping to require the service of a couple of other familiar faces in the coming weeks just to boost the squad some more.

“We are always looking to improve the club further off the court and hope that this same desire can translate on the court.

“I am happy with the progression so far and hope that we are able to keep the best fans in the league entertained each week.”

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