Young Braves pick new leaders

The Bendigo Braves have announced their captains and coaches for the 2011 D-League season.The CR Martin Young Braves will be led by head coach Mick Spear, who is renowned in Bendigo basketball for both his playing career and his coaching at domestic and representative levels.The Young Braves will be led by two captains this season, with Matt Barlett and David Hogan to share the role.Barlett has enjoyed a promising pre-season, which gained him selection in the Bendigo Braves senior squad, while Hogan looks set to have a break-out year in the D-League competition.Spear said both captains would bring their individual leadership qualities to the team.“Matt is a natural leader, and this year he will be able to draw on his experiences he gains whilst in the SEABL program and bring them back to the group,” Spear said.“David is extremely fit after a big pre-season; he provides the group with a mature, settling type influence.” The Zone Young Lady Braves also have a new head coach this season, with Mark Dellavadova stepping up to the top job. They have also selected co-captains for the 2011 season – Elise Strachan and Zara Pearson. Dellavadova said both would be leaders on and off the court.“We have a young team this year and Elise and Zara are both marvellous leaders who look out for, help and educate the younger players,” she said.The Young Lady Braves will play their first game tomorrow at 6pm, followed by the Young Braves tipping at 8pm at Bendigo Stadium.