Former Gold Coast Rollers NBL star John Szigeti has taken over as coach for the 2020 QSL season

Former Gold Coast Rollers NBL star and newly appointed coach John Szigeti is confident a shortened Queensland State League season will still provide plenty of opportunities for current players to earn a chance at the top level. SUBSCRIBE TO READ FULL INTERVIEW.

FORMER Gold Coast Rollers NBL star and newly appointed coach John Szigeti is confident a shortened Queensland State League season will still provide plenty of opportunities for current players to earn a chance at the top level.

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Szigeti has taken over the coaching reigns from 2019 coach Mick Conlon for the 2020 season after the inaugural NBL1 season was cancelled due to COVID-19, forcing the Rollers back into the QSL.

A modified QSL season will kick off on August 7 with 13 teams set to vie for a spot in the Grand Final which will be staged in late October.

The last time Szigeti coached, he helped steer the then Goannas to the Australian Basketball Association finals.

Goannas basketball coach John Szigeti with Toby Zaremba in 2007 (1st Australian MVP of the ABA in 10 years). Reporter: Pat McLeod

The former centre believes the revised QSL season could provide the perfect opportunity for local talent to take their chance in the NBL.

“There were no imports, no one was paid and I’d like to see that depth again here,” he said.

“One of the great privileges I had was coming through as a Gold Coast junior and getting to learn off and be inspired by the quality of players.

“All of the NBL1 guys have been passed down to our QSL team so the depth is immense and I’d expect us to go well at this level.

“This league is a great chance for our top-level talent to shine and receive more opportunities without the presence of international imports so those guys are going to evolve a bit more and lead the team.

“It’s (the QSL) the only pathway (to the NBL) and players have to understand that and play with the right intensity and ethic to go even further.

“As a veteran Gold Coast player, I’m really excited to be involved with our top talent and I’m looking forward to seeing if I can help a few local kids reach their dreams.”

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The Rollers hit the court for their first training session since lockdown last week and have already been taken to task by strength and conditioning staff as Szigeti aims to develop a defensively orientated, running game style.

Four of last year’s top eight QBL sides, including powerhouse associations Cairns and Townsville, won’t feature in the revised QSL competition due to travel uncertainty but Szigeti believes the eventual champion will have earned their place in the history books.

“Everyone is in the same situation but we’re just so excited we get an opportunity,” he said.

“I think it’s going to be easier to remain focused for a shorter season and stay injury-free so there are some real advantages I think.”