RAPINETT TAKES CHARGE OF THE FLAMES

James Rapinett will take the next step in his coaching career as he moves from Assistant Coach to Head Coach for the reigning NBL1 North Champion the A.Gabrielli Constructions Flames.

After assisting Shannon Seebohm for the previous two seasons in the NBL1 and also spending time with the JCU Townsville Fire he will take the reins in the NBL1 North 2023.

“Townsville Basketball are delighted to have James take on the Head Coaching role of the Flames and it is well deserved after the work he has put into the association over the years”, said Townsville Basketball General Manager Mark Wrobel.

“He ably led the team on a few occasions last season when Shannon was away and has a glowing recommendation from Shannon that he is ready to take over the team in his own right.”

Seebohm has decided it was time to take a break from the rigours of back to back seasons of WNBL to NBL1 to enjoy some well-deserved time off next winter.

“This is something I have been working towards for a number of years, I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work closely with one of the best coaches in the country in Shannon”, said Rapinett.

“I am very excited to lead this group for the 2023 season and am ready to take the next step in my coaching career.”

“I would like to thank TBI for giving me this opportunity to lead the A.Gabrielli Constructions Flames and I am looking forward to getting in front of our loyal supporters and hope to see The Furnace packed out in 2023.”

Rapinett and Wrobel have already started working on securing the key pieces to the program for 2023 with the assistance of Seebohm who is keen to keep the close relationship between the Fire and Flames intact.

Seebohm will continue in a role behind the scenes supporting the individual development of the Flames players throughout the NBL1 season.

The season schedule for 2023 is in the final stages of its preparation and Townsville Basketball is hoping to announce its Head Coach for the Townsville Heat as early as next week.