GERALDTON Buccaneers coach Ray Evans is calling on his young players to stand up and be counted in the 2010 State Basketball League season.

The SBL campaign tips off in early March and the Buccs will start preparations on Sunday, January 3.

Evans is on the hunt to top up his player list following the departure of American imports Luke Meyer and Michael LeBlanc.

The Buccs boss is eager to secure the services of a utility man to fill the huge void left by SBL MVP Meyer, as well as finding a tall shooter.

Evans said two solid imports would be crucial to the Buccs title campaign but he said his junior foot soldiers would need to play a big role.

“We’re obviously keen to sign another two imports to add a new dimension to the team but we still need our young guys to step up,” he said.

Evans said young guns Luke Wrensted and Jordan Myers would be given more minutes next season.

Evans said Tom Witts’ presence in the 2010 line-up is uncertain as he may need to relocate to Perth for work.

He said if Witts was unavailable youngster Aaron Ralph would be given more responsibility.

“Aaron Ralph had a great season last year,” he said.

“Losing Tom would be a big blow, but Aaron is more than capable of stepping in to fill his place.”

Ralph racked up a season-high of 21 points in the 112-79 victory over Willetton Tigers last season, scoring 270 points in 31 games.

The Buccs lost to Lakeside Lightning in the semi-final showdown last season.

Evans said making the finals would be paramount again next season.

“We want to continue playing topline basketball,” he said, “and that doesn’t happen unless you’re pushing for the finals.”

“We want to build on our semifinal appearance last year and go one better.”

Matt Wundenburg has been named captain for the 2010 season.

Local players wanting to attend the first training session on January 3 can call Evans on 0407 737 986.