After returning to the championship for the first time in almost two decades last year, the Gators managed to make finals in the last game of the regular season and finish fourth overall.
Director Steve Beks said returning to the championship this season was a “no-brainer”.
“Last season was a success, on and off the court,” Beks said.
“We probably exceeded expectations, we wanted to make finals and then ended up winning the first finals game.
“We think we belong in this division and we want to go another step further.”
Captain Matt Bartlett and vice-captain Sam Beks have re-signed, as well as Tom Frame and Nick Dodd.
Coach Josh Waight said it was great to keep the local core intact.
“Their experience and knowledge is so valuable,” Waight said.
Kiwi Josh Kooiman will return for his third year in red and navy following uncertainty around his future after last season.
“We weren’t sure what his movements were going to be, but we are rapt to have him back,” Waight said.
“He’s really vocal and has become a real leader and he’s one of the locals now.
“We all know he can shoot the ball, but I think he can add some more scoring into his game.”
New signings include Seymour native Aaron Dolny, along with Filipino guard Eric Miraflores and American forward Ryan Batte.
Dolny comes across from championship-winning side Wyndham and is currently playing college ball in the United States.
Waight said Dolny’s shooting ability would help supplement the loss of last season’s other sharpshooter from New Zealand, Dylan Wilkie.
Miraflores has represented Benalla Breakers in Country Basketball League, as well as playing Big V and NBL1 ball.
The shifty guard started playing professionally in his mid 30s and is now 42, showing no signs of slowing down.
“His knowledge of the game, ability to create splits and gaps and find his teammates is great to add to the group,” Waight said,
“The backcourt will be one of our strengths this year, with the ability to change the line-ups and play a lot of different ways.”
Batte is 198cm and hails from Cincinnati, Ohio, having just finished a professional season in Indonesia.
Waight said Batte came with a glowing recommendation from his former club.
“He can score the ball in a variety of different ways and I think he’ll be a really good fit for Shepparton,” he said.
“He’s a community guy, so he’ll be great on and off the court.
“We’re getting into the swing of things now, so excited for the new guys to join the team.”
The Shepparton Gators’ first game against Blackburn is on March 29 at 7pm at Shepparton Sports Stadium.
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