The Pakenham Warriors BIG V Men’s program are eager to start a new chapter in their young history and have enlisted Ryan Rogers to take the reigns of the Cardinia based program.

Speaking on his appointment Rogers said, “I’m really excited at the potential of building something from the ground up. The club is quite raw within BIG V circles but with a dedicated administration in place and great community support we are going to raise the expectations internally.”

While he wouldn’t make any bold predictions about a championship or top four finish upon taking up the new position, he was realistic about the road ahead and the direction he will take the Warriors.

“I know we have to prove ourselves and there will be some ups and downs, but one thing I guarantee is that we will have a crack every night and the culture will be one that players want to be a part of.”

Rogers arrives at Pakenham after a successful 2012 campaign at Blackburn where he guided their BIG V Youth Championship Men to a top two finish (16-6) before bowing out in the preliminary final in their maiden season.

Rogers brings a wealth of experience serving as an Assistant Coach to Melbourne Tigers NBL legend Warrick Giddey within the Werribee BIG V Championship Men’s program between 2004-2008 before spending time in Perth coaching in the Western Australia Basketball League.

As for what his style will be, Rogers said that the team would be structured so they can overcome adversity but won’t rely on individuals to ultimately dictate the W column.

“It’s about the process and playing a brand of basketball that can win games in March as well as August. We will put a real emphasis on half court execution and more importantly building confidence so the camaraderie is strong.”

In addition to taking the BIG V Men program, Rogers will also head up the Warriors Men’s squad in the MMBL commencing in a fortnight which will enable him to get good look at potential players and assist with continuity heading into the BIG V season.

Speaking on the signing Association President Craig Magrath said, “Ryan brings a real understanding of the challenge but with his experience and enthusiasm, he is the ideal guy to lead us going forward.”

“We’re looking forward to the bigger picture which extends beyond the court as we strive to build on healthy home game attendances by getting active in the public with our marketing and promotion whilst engaging strongly with our junior program.”

Rogers’ attention now turns to tryouts, which will be announced in the coming weeks with player signings and to follow shortly thereafter.

"Any team who finishes 2-18 obviously need to evaluate their roster but ultimately we believe that there is a solid core in place that we can build from but we’re definitely in the hunt for a couple of pieces who can help us both short and long term.”