Community sport has been decimated in the past nine months due to the coronavirus pandemic, and even two months ago a basketball season looked all but dead.
But on Saturday night the Echuca Pirates’ men's side will get the the chance to take to the hardwood when they take on Castlemaine Cannons in the opening round of the Country Basketball League's North West men's competition.
It's the opening round of a limited seven-week season, followed by two weeks of finals.
Pirates coach Leo Tenace said his side had worked hard through a short preparation period for the season.
“It's been brisk,” he said.
“There wasn't a lot of time to get ready for the season, but that's the case for every team. We're all in the same boat, so we just have to be ready when the games start this weekend to go.”
The Pirates will not be at full strength for the season, with the Victoria-NSW border issues meaning not all members of the team will be available.
And while Tenace still believes his team will put on a strong showing during the season, he said the enjoyment factor may be more important.
“With the year we have all been through - everything that COVID and the lockdowns have brought with it - it will honestly just be good to be back out there on the court,” Tenace said.
“We know we have a season starting on Saturday.
“We don't know what happens after that. A lot can change in the next few weeks, so all we can do as a team is enjoy it for what it is.
“We've got a short season, but we get to play, and we are just going to go out and have fun with it.”
The Pirates will make the trip for Saturday's game, before coming back and hosting Bacchus Marsh next Saturday night.
The Echuca Pirates’ women's side have a bye this week, and will begin their season next Sunday at home against Bendigo.
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