Tue
Aug 12, 2025
Richard Hill Announces Retirement as Head Coach of the CASTEC RURAL Pioneers

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The Pioneers Basketball Club announces that the club’s longest-serving Head Coach, Richard Hill, will step down from the position of Head Coach of the Castec Rural Pioneers after 319 games in the top job.
Richard first took the reins as Head Coach at the end of the 2011 season. Taking charge of the men's program in preparation for the club's 2012 SEABL season. Over the next 13 years, Richard has cemented his place in club history, guiding the Pioneers to five consecutive SEABL Conference Championships (2013–2017) and three SEABL National Championships during that period.
Alongside team success, Richard’s leadership and coaching expertise earned him league Coach of the Year honours on four occasions, underlining his impact on the league as well as the Mount Gambier community.
Club President Tom Kosch paid tribute to Richard’s contribution:
“Since his arrival in 2012, Richard will step down as one of the most successful head coaches at the NBL1 level and leaves an imprint on our club that goes far beyond the championship success and an incredible win-loss record.”
“Our club is extremely grateful for the commitment and service Richard has made in the basketball and wider community over his 13-year tenure with the Pioneers.”
“Richard leaves a legacy built on hard work both on and off the court and has been the definition and leader of Pioneer Passion since he arrived.”
The Pioneers Basketball Club thanks Richard for his remarkable service, professionalism, and commitment to both the club and the Mount Gambier community, and wishes him all the best in retirement.
The Pioneers Basketball Club board will seek expressions of interest to fill the vacancy of their NBL1 Men’s Head coaching position.