Dolphins appoint Snakes assistant to lead coaching role
New Cairns Dolphins coach Sam Gruggen has called for more attention to be paid to women’s basketball after the success of Opals star Cayla George.
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NEW Cairns Dolphins coach Sam Gruggen has called for more attention to be paid to women’s basketball after the success of Opals star Cayla George.
Gruggen, who is also the Taipans assistant coach, has been appointed Dolphins coach for the upcoming NBL1 North season.
He brings an impressive resume dripping with experience.
Before arriving in Cairns, he was the Head Coach of High Performance for Basketball NSW, South State Performance Manager for Basketball Queensland and South Development Officer for Basketball Tasmania.
He has been involved in NBL coaching circles for the better part of a decade with stints at Townsville, the Kings and the Taipans, the last two stops under Adam Forde.
Last off-season, he was also part of the coaching staff for the U17 Australian Crocs at the 2022 FIBA World Cup.
“I’m really pleased to be able to take on this role - strengthening the women’s program is a priority for all of us and I’m really excited about having the opportunity to be part of that,” Gruggen said.
“We’ve all seen what Cayla George has achieved – she was in a Dolphins uniform just nine months ago and now we’ll see her in the WNBA again.
“It’s time to really start paying attention to the women’s basketball talent that can be cultivated here in Cairns and ensure that this trajectory continues, because we want a WNBL franchise here in the near future.”
George played for the Dolphins last NBL1 North season, then went on to win the WNBL MVP after an incredible campaign for Melbourne Boomers.
While the Boomers’ title defence fell at the final hurdle - a one-point loss to Southside Flyers in the deciding semi final game - her individual form was such that she has secured a stint with Las Vegas Aces in the WNBA.
Donkin will stay on as a player.
She had attempted to move into coaching the past two seasons but injuries across the roster forced her to suit up on multiple occasions, sometimes for full, 40-minute stints.
And she backed Gruggen to take the program to the next level.
“I’ve been involved with the Dolphins for over 10 years and it’s important for me to see the team grow and develop,” she said.
“Right now, I know I’m best on the court and can provide leadership to the playing group on and off the floor, while Gruggs takes care of the coaching.
“He will take us to another level. We need to continually improve, and this is a step in that direction.”
The Dolphins, who are backed by Kenfrost Homes, will begin their season next Sunday in Townsville.
The first home game at the Fishtank (Early Settler Stadium) will be Friday, April 14, when they host Brisbane Capitals.
matthew.mcinerney1@news.com.au
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