The Pakenham Warriors are pleased to announce they have appointed Brett Small to the senior program as Ryan Rogers lead assistant for 2014.

Small, a former Dandenong Rangers junior progressed through the ranks with his talent taking him onto the national stage representing Victoria at the U/18 Championships, before graduating into their SEABL program where he also played two seasons but is now firmly entrenched in the Pakenham family.

Commencing his involvement within the Pakenham Association coaching his eldest son Ethan domestically back in 2008, it has been a steady rise which is now in full swing as he has just completed a stellar debut VJBL season guiding the Warriors U/12 Boys to be runners-up in the well respected VJL2 competition.

While coaching his junior squad in 2013, Small took a keen interest in the progress of the BIG V program where he attended most of the home games and really enjoyed watching the team play to the systems and structures put in place by Ryan Rogers.

“The guys worked really hard and played for each other and this really showed when they were hit hard by injuries late in the season”, said Small.

“The team is well coached and I believe I can help with the continued improvement of the team and the integration of the junior program through to the seniors.”

“I have a lot to learn in my development but believe this is a great opportunity to improve my skills and help with the development of the club.”

Small will step into his role immediately taking part in next weeks BIG V tryouts and MMBL duties over the summer months, while he will be Rogers second set of eyes on the training court assisting with the development of senior players.

“With the continued improvement of the roster and player development I have no doubt we can challenge for the championship in the coming season”, said Small.

Speaking on his addition to the bench Coach Ryan Rogers is very pleased to have a club person internally show the level of interest and potential in stepping up to the plate.

“Brett’s great, he shows the desire and characteristics of being an elite coach, 2013 was an educational year for all involved and to be in a position where we can add somebody with his credibility will only propel us forward”, said Rogers.

In addition to his new senior duties, Small will continue his VJBL involvement in 2014 where he will lead the talented crop of U14 Boys.

Pakenham Basketball President Craig Magrath confirmed Small’s dedication to helping the club speaks volumes for his value.

“With there being a strong mutual respect between Ryan and Brett, anytime somebody shows the dedication and is happy to put the hours in to help us progress it will only further strengthen our product”, said Magrath