ISS Shipping Sixth Man Zone electrifies Hawks' home fixtures

The atmosphere at the Illawarra Hawks’ first five home NBL22 fixtures has been electric and a large part of that has been its newly unveiled Sixth Man Zone program - sponsored by ISS Shipping.

Located behind the backboard, adjacent to the Hawks' bench, the Sixth Man Zone made up of 14 different local community groups, will become the teams' sixth man on the court this season.

Their objective is simple; to intimidate the opposition by creating a zone of passionate, engaged and vocal supporters which will include a series of pre-scripted chants and activities throughout the game - led by Hawks game day volunteers, mascots, cheerleaders and MCs.

"A home-court advantage is instrumental to any successful side and our Sixth Man Zone is a key part of that," Hawks coach Brian Goorjian said.

"The Sixth Man Zone energies the atmosphere at our home games, which our team can hear and feel on the bench - it's absolutely worth points to us each and every week."

It's because of this impact, and the direction of the club, that ISS Shipping managing director Zoran Ilic, wanted to jump on board at the Sixth Man Zone's official sponsors.

“The ISS Shipping Sixth Man Zone was fantastic and it seemed the kids really enjoyed themselves - I have no doubt it will only grow and make the games more spectacular as the season progresses,” said Ilic, after attending Saturday’s clash with the Wildcats.

“I can see the direction of the club and vision Dorry Kordahi [Hawks co-owner and president] has for the region.

“This impressed me and fits within our company ethos going forward.”

Manning the Sixth Man Zone during the team’s thrilling season-opening win against the New Zealand Breakers were students from Bulli High School.

"We all loved it, especially the kids that hadn't been to a Hawks game before - it's probably converted a few into regular fans too," Bulli High teacher Steve Delaney said.

"Being close to the action and hearing exactly what was going on during the game was unreal.

"It really emulated the college basketball crowd type of atmosphere, giving fans that feeling of connection to the team.

"Even just being there for the hype video, the warm-up dunks and interact with the players is something all fans will want to experience."

Bulli High School was the first of 14 community groups, which has also included Wollondilly Basketball Association, Cabra Kai Academy, Norths Basketball Club and Illawarra Basketball Association senior men and women since, that will take part in the program, with the top-performing team being acknowledged as the Sixth Men of the Year and in return receive a series of benefits, including an exclusive visit from the Hawks and acknowledgement with a banner at the Hawks' home court at the Snakepit

"Our Sixth Man Zone program is an exciting concept and one we're really proud to be rolling out this season, especially with how engaged our first three groups have been," Kordahi said.

"It continues our commitment to engaging the Illawarra region by involving a number of groups from local primary and secondary schools, the University of Wollongong, sporting clubs and a number of community groups.”

Thursday’s round eight fixture against the Perth Wildcats at the WIN Entertainment Centre will see the Illawarra Basketball Association boys representative sides electrify the Sixth Man Zone.

Tickets for the match are available via Ticketmaster.