“I didn’t consider Rollers:” Seahawks or bust for Linton

When Robert Linton made the decision to move to the Gold Coast to continue his illustrious basketball career, the 28-year-old quickly ruled out one of the Coast’s two QBL sides.

When Robert Linton made the decision to move to the Gold Coast to continue his illustrious basketball career, the 28-year-old quickly ruled out one of the Coast’s two QBL sides.

“I didn’t consider the Rollers,” said the newly appointed North Gold Coast Seahawks captain.

“It wasn’t a dollars and cents equation for me.

“I began talks with the managers and staff at the Seahawks and quickly found that it’s a community club.

After basketball stints in the SEABL and with the Adelaide 36ers, Linton decided it was time to move closer to home and the Seahawks had the perfect offer.

Robert Linton in action for the Seahawks during their round one win against the Cairns Marlins. Picture: Fan Fair

“I’m from Coffs Harbour so it made sense to me,” he said.

“I really like the beach so I’ve loved being back on the Gold Coast and have gotten myself in a happier headspace.”

After finishing second last in the 2018 Queensland Basketball League, the Seahawks were crying out for talent and experience and they have found both in Linton.

“I think the average age of our roster is only 22-years-old so I’m hoping to bring a lot of on court leadership,” he said.

“I want to provide a lot of guidance and maturity.”

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Linton’s impact has been immediate with the veteran leading the Seahawks to a 84-73 win over the Cairns Marlins on Friday night.

The sharp-shooting guard made 13 points in his first game of the season, combining well with returning US import Quinton Campbell who added 21 points to the Seahawks tally and hauled in 11 rebounds.

Quinton Campbell was on fire for the Seahawks during their round one clash against the Cairns Marlins. Picture: Fan Fair.

Inspired by a touching pre-game tribute to club stalwart Chris Dicker who recently passed away after a kayaking incident, the Seahawks dominated early to carve out a 12 point lead at the break.

Cairns got within two points late in the piece but the Seahawks experience saw them pull away and claim a well deserved victory.

“I think we can achieve a lot this year,” Linton said.

“We have a versatile, young squad who are full of energy.

“We’re all a pretty similar size so I think we can bring a bit of a different, faster style and surprise a few teams.”

Beyond the court, Linton has already made a huge impact on the Gold Coast Basketball community with his basketball clinics a hit with Seahawks juniors.

“A lot of people have helped me get to where I am and so I want to help kids get where they want to be,” he said.

The Seahawks women also kicked their season off with a win after taking down the Marlins 82-64.

American import Deja Middleton starred with 25 points and 23 rebounds.

Both teams will play their round two matches against the Sunshine Coast Phoenix on Sunday at home.