TOM DALY APPOINTED CASTEC RURAL PIONEERS HEAD COACH

The Mount Gambier Pioneers are pleased to confirm the appointment of Tom Daly as Head Coach of the Castec Rural Pioneers for the 2027 NBL1 South season, with the club legend committing to the Pioneers.

Daly’s appointment as Head Coach follows an extraordinary playing career with the club spanning more than a decade. Originally joining Mount Gambier in 2013, Daly became one of the most decorated players and serving as captain for five seasons.

During his time as a player, Tom was a key part of three SEABL National championship teams, including the 2017 roster where he was named the MVP of the Championship game. He also earned All-SEABL recognition as the league Under-23 Youth player of the Year and established himself as one of the competition's leading guards.

His leadership and commitment to the club was recognized in 2025 when Daly was inducted as a Life Member of the Pioneers Basketball Club, acknowledging his long-standing service, leadership and contribution both on and off the court.

In the twilight years of his playing careers Tom’s transition to coaching with a desire to lead the Pioneers. Before Retiring as a player at the end of the 2024 season, Tom supported the Men’s program and Richard Hill as an Assistant Coach in 2025.

Earlier this year Tom was appointed the Coaching Director of Basketball Mount Gambier, a role he will continue to serve.

Tom’s connection to grass roots basketball and the Pioneers, will continue to develop the junior pathway for coaches and players through to the elite level within Mount Gambier. 

Daly will take reigns of leading the Castec Rural Pioneers into the 2027 NBL1 South season, bringing an extensive understanding of the club’s previous success, its culture and what it means to represent the community.

Pioneers Basketball Club President, Tom Kosch, on Daly's appointment:

"I am excited for Tom and our club as he gets his opportunity to lead the Castec Rural Pioneers program into its next chapter."

"Tom’s leadership and direction will encourage the growth and development of the next wave of players through our NBL1 program”. 

"Tom will begin working on the recruitment of our roster for the 2027 NBL1 South season. With a focus on instilling a team identity that our town and fan’s will be proud of built on hard work, toughness and community."

Tom Daly on taking on the role of Head Coach:

"I am honoured to be appointed as Head Coach of the Pioneers. This is a club with a proud tradition and a passionate community, and I am excited to lead a program built on connection, competitiveness, and resilience."
 
"We’re getting straight to work on finding every possible edge in an extremely high-level competition. The challenge won’t be easy, but that’s what makes it exciting. We are committed to relentless improvement, unity, and representing our club with integrity and determination."
 
"Above all, we want our team to be a source of pride for our supporters, sponsors, and the wider community. I look forward to working with our players, staff, and fans to build a program that everyone can believe in and be proud to support."

The appointment marks an exciting new chapter for both Daly and the Pioneers, with one of the club's most decorated leaders now stepping into the role of shaping the next generation of Castec Rural Pioneers.

The club will now turn its attention towards building its playing roster and preparing for another NBL1 season that tip’s of in late March of 2027.