Big shoes to fill

EXCITIFIED. It is a word invented by a former boss of new Pioneers coach Peter Godfrey and it perfectly sums up his feelings towards stepping into former coach Richard Hill’s shoes.

“It means excited and terrified and that is how I feel,” Godfrey said, “I am more than well aware of the legacy that Richard leaves and I am very respectful of that. If I can emulate that I will be exceptionally happy.”

While Hill’s resume is impressive and his results at the Castec Rural Supplies Pioneers have been exceptional, Godfrey is no slouch, having made his mark over a more than two decade period in the SEABL and NBL1 as well as elite school programs and talent pathway programs.

Most recently, Godfrey, who has signed a three year deal with the Pioneers, served as Associate Head Coach of the Waverley Falcons (NBL1 South 2025), while also leading top-tier school programs as Head Coach of Ivanhoe Grammar First Boys (AGSV) and Head Coach of Wesley College First Boys (APS).

Hie tenure with the Kilsyth Cobras is arguably his most celebrated role thus far – he was part of the program as an assistant from 2006-2013 and returned as head coach from 2020-2024.

That stint included being named NBL1 South Coach of the Year in 2022.

To take on the Mount Gambier program was an opportunity too good to pass up and Godfrey is eager to take up the challenge.

“It is just a great opportunity in a great organisation and opportunities like this don’t come along very often,” Godfrey said. “My initial challenge will be putting a roster together and making sure we are competitive and part of the back end of the season.”

Godfrey is looking to run some pre-Christmas sessions before really ramping up pre-season in the new year with a strong six week window starting around mid-February to really finetune for the 2026 NBL1 South season.

Pioneers President Tom Kosch said Godfrey’s appointment marks an exciting new era for the club.

“Peter’s appointment is a reflection of the success and experience he’s had as a Head Coach in the NBL1 South,” Kosch said. “He’s got the runs on the board, and we’re proud to announce him as the 11th coach to lead our men’s program.

“We’re excited to welcome Peter to Mount Gambier and the Pioneers. His values align with ours and he is looking forward to connecting with our community and continuing the Pioneer Passion’.

“As a club, we enter a new and exciting chapter for the Pioneers as we continue to drive Mount Gambier forward as a destination for aspiring athletes and their development within the NBL1 South.”

COACHING AWARDS

2022 NBL1 South Coach of the Year

2018 Big V State Championship Coach of the Year

2016 Basketball Victoria Coach of the Year

2015 & 2014 Big V Youth Championship Coach of the Year