Gloucester City Kings get their season underway tomorrow with a home opener against the Plymouth Raiders. With much change over the last few months including new investors, re-branding, new venues and new projects it's been a busy summer for Managing Director, Jay Marriott. He shares some thoughts on the eve of the men's 2023/24 season.
Hi All,
As I sit here ready for the 2023/24 season my mind wanders to the novel I will write one day about what I can only describe as a summer of change. Change is necessary but always hard and I am in awe of the people around me that have rallied to ready us for growth, rolled their sleeves up and jumped in the trenches with me, you all know who you are so thank you.
Nothing has been more challenging than a phone call Friday, late afternoon to say our return to Oxstalls Sports Park has been cancelled due to it's immediate closure. First and foremost my heart goes out to those that lost jobs on the spot. Secondly a massive thank you to Leisure at Cheltenham who were great hosts for our pre-season game against USA Select and came to our rescue with a moments notice. Making sure we offer a great game day experience is the most important currently but if long term this becomes our home, I know we won't miss a beat because its a great venue.
A familiar face but new role, I share my excitement for Head Coach, Jimmy Bower and watching the team he has put together for this season. They had a great cup victory last week to progress in the National Cup so will come into this game with great confidence. I've seen first hand this group grow week in and week out and that's a credit to the culture Jimmy has instilled and the players desire to represent the county of Gloucestershire. I'm looking forward also to the debut of Fraser MacDonald, our new 6'8, Australian big man, he has been in a few weeks with the boys so I think he is ready to show us what he's got.
We have been blessed with some fantastic partnerships and sponsorship that I want to say thank you for the unbelievable support. We are incredibly proud to support a beautiful charity in Emily's Gift you can make direct donations via our website so please support them all season long.
Lastly, I welcome tomorrow's opponents the Plymouth Raiders, my hometown team, childhood team and a team I have both played and coached. There departure from British Basketball due to legal battles was incredibly sad for everyone involved so to see them return has been extremely emotional for me. I tip my hat to owner, Ross Mackenzie, who overcome a monumental battle to see the return of the club and wish new Head Coach Gareth Laws all the luck in the world this season, just not in the game tomorrow.
Don't forget to follow us on all social media platforms to stay up to date with all things Gloucester City Basketball.
Please enjoy our game, our season and help us to #fillthefortress
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