Bigger picture fuels Chargers’ new coach

ANTHONY Stewart says returning to be head coach of the Hobart Chargers is a step back, but he is happy to take the role for now.

The former SEABL championship-winning coach of the Chargers and coach of the Southern Huskies, Stewart’s return to the Chargers was announced yesterday along with Mark Nash as Chargers women’s coach for next NBL1 season. Stewart was delighted with his appointment but has his eyes on a bigger prize.

“Coaching-wise it’s a little bit of a step back as far as the level of competition and players and coaches, but at the same time the NBL1 is building,” Stewart said.

“Mitch McCarron, who plays for Melbourne United, is going to play for Geelong and there are several other NBL players who are going to come back and play in this league.

“I want to continue to coach at the highest level I can and right now that’s here.”

The potential to coach a mooted future Tasmanian NBL team was a key part of staying put.

“That’s my passion. That’s what I’m aiming for,” Stewart said.

“Whether that’s as an assistant coach or head coaching role, that will play out as we go along.

“I just want to be involved in basketball, that’s my life, and this is just another step in that.”

Stewart revealed he had offers from elsewhere.

“I had a couple of interesting opportunities, but with my two boys in particular and my family, it was best to stay here,” he said.

“With such momentum being built around the new NBL team possibly coming to Tasmania and the development of Wilkinsons Point, it made sense to stay here and see what eventuates.”

Nash wants to assemble a team capable of playing finals.

“The goal for any coach is to be competitive and make the playoffs. I like to win and I will build a team culture around that,” Nash said.

Chargers president Brett said: “We’ve got two of the most successful coaches in the past for the club, and also two of the most successful basketball players produced by the state, so it’s an exciting step in the comeback of the Chargers.”