The Wollongong Hawks are making steady progress in restructuring both the on and off court teams for the 2008/2009 season. After securing star forward Cameron Tragardh for the next three years, and local Daniel Jackson for the 2008/2009 season, the Hawks have appointed Neil Mettam as General Manager Sales and Marketing

Neil, a passionate Hawks supporter for many years, brings a strong knowledge of the local business community.

Neil comes to the Hawks from Business Machine Specialists BMS. As Major Account Manager Neil managed many key corporate relationships. Prior to that Neil had 13 years experience with Dairy Farmers, which resulted in Neil securing the role of Franchise Business Manager for southern Sydney.

Hawks director Richard Clifford said Neil’s strong business background at a corporate level combined with his love of basketball gave the club a valuable blend of experience and passion in the front office.

"Neil’s appointment is a great move for the Wollongong Hawks," Clifford said. "We see huge potential to build on the club’s existing relationships and expand the club successfully into the community. We think people will respond really well to Neil’s enthusiasm for the sport and for Wollongong."

Neil said he is looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead for the Wollongong Hawks, and understands the importance of the role the Wollongong community has played over the last year.

"I look forward to working with the all stakeholders to re-build this great basketball club," Neil said. "The effort of the board, the owners and the Friends of the Hawks last season in ensuring the Hawks’ survival was nothing short of sensational. With that backing and the support of the new naming rights sponsor ahm, I am confident the Wollongong Hawks are embarking on an exciting new era."

Meanwhile, head coach Eric Cooks is working hard to secure the right combination of players to build a successful team.