It seems that whether you win a State Championship or not, there is simply no time to rest as the Ringwood Hawks are now turning their minds to next year with the signing of their first import for the 2017 Big V season.

The Hawks knew midway through this season that the popular Nate Champion would not be returning for a third season so Hawks Coach Ken Harrington quickly sent out the messages to his American contacts.
“The one thing about recruiting American players every year is we have made some great friends and former players who are always looking out for new talent to send us.” Hawks Head Coach Ken Harrington said.
“This time it was a name mentioned by former import Skyler Bowlin who people may remember helped us win a Championship back in 2012.”

The name that Arkansas native Bowlin mentioned was that of Harding University star Jacob Gibson, another local Arkansas product. Gibson, at a touch over 6’4 with deadly three point range, had just finished his College career and was eager to start his professional career wherever that would take him . And Australia sounded perfect.

“Skyler and Nate had great experiences with the Hawks and I really hope to have the same sort of impact they had on and off the court.” Gibson said from his home in Jonesboro.
Gibson will bring plenty of qualities that promise he will continue the Hawks great run of quality American imports. At Harding, Gibson has his fingerprints over many school records, including most career three pointers and a tournament record 40 points in a big win over Southern Arkansas last season. As a senior, he was the recipient of the very prestigious M.E Berryhill Award which is presented for excellence in athletics and academics.

After a few chats, Harrington wasted no time is getting Gibson to sign on for 2017.
“Jacob ticked all the boxes that we look for in a recruit. From all reports he is a great player and most importantly a great person.”

With Gibson set to arrive in Ringwood around late January, we wondered how much he knew about Australia, the Hawks and what his expectations are with his new team. “Well, I know the story of Ned Kelly believe it or not, I played with a bloke (that’s what we call them right?) from the Gold Coast in College so I have some Aussie knowledge.” “I also can’t wait to see the great beaches and coastline.” Gibson pointed out.
“As per the Hawks I did my homework, they won the Championship in 2012, 2014 and 2016 and they have a great culture. Skyler had great things to say, so I was sold.”

And finally, how did Gibson see the 2017 season working out for him and the Hawks.
“Winning, going to back to back is the ultimate goal of course. But connecting with people and making new friends will be just as important.

You can see Jacob Gibson’s highlites on YouYube here.