Hawks Thank Intern Coach Graduates

The Illawarra Hawks have long been developing talent both on and off the court, and the club would like to acknowledge the recent graduates of the Intern Coach Program.

After a successful launch of the Illawarra Hawks Intern Coach Program in 2021, there have been several coaches that have learnt and developed important skills as coaches and video analysts.

Angus Bourke, Decclan McLean and Patrick Williamson all commenced intern coach positions with the club in NBL22 and were instrumental in assisting the Basketball department in their run to the NBL22 Finals.

Angus completed his internship following the NBL22 season and has since held positions as the UC Capitals Assistant Coach during the WNBL23 season and the NBL1 Men’s Head Coach for the Northern Suburbs Basketball Association. The Bears finished top four in the NBL1 East Competition. Angus will take up an Intern Coach position with the Sydney Kings for the NBL24 season.  

Decclan recently completed his time with the club following two seasons, both NBL22 and NBL23, and is heading to the University of Portland Pilots (NCAA Division 1) to be their Video Coordinator.

Patrick also completed his internship at the end of NBL23, taking up the position of NBL1 Men’s Head Coach for the Sutherland District Basketball Association, after holding the Player Development Manager role during his internship. The Sharks went on to win the 2023 NBL1 East Conference Championship.

Hawks Assistant Coach Shaun Roger is grateful for the dedication shown by the recent graduates.

"We have been tremendously fortunate to have the services of three high calibre individuals involved in our intern coach program," Roger said.

"Decclan, Angus, and Pat have displayed a willingly selfless attitude and a growth mindset to their approach in the day-to-day function of the team - they are all high character, hardworking, and naturally inquisitive learners."

"Their approach to the program has allowed us to further develop our workflows as a coaching staff, as well as enabling our ability to greater service each individual athletes’ pre/post-practice needs.

"As a staff, we are thankful for all three of their commitment and have enjoyed their company."

The club would like to thank Angus, Decclan and Patrick for their service, and wish them the best in their future endeavours.