Kristiansand Pirates-trener Anthony Collins har som mål å føre 2. divisjonsklubben Pirates tilbake til øverste nivå.

Kristiansand Pirates er byens største basketball klubb. Laget Pirates 1 topper 2. divisjon med fem strake seirer.

Pirates har tidligere hatt et herrelag i basketballens eliteserie (BLNO) – men det er noen år siden sist.

Klubben har de siste årene fokusert på å dekke ungdommens behov og få til en sunn økonomi.

Flere ungdomslag er nå på plass og klubben har penger i banken.

I dag trener Pirates-lag i Vågsbygdhallen, Idda Arena, Sukkevannshallen og Havlimyrhallen – både gutter og jenter.

Nå vurderer klubben igjen å spille i den øverste nasjonale serien – forberedelsene er i gang.

Anthony Collins er hovedtreneren til elitesatsningslaget, som trener i Idda Arena mandag/onsdag/fredag (kl 20-22).

Vi stilte Anthony fra USA 12 kjappe spørsmål i julestria…

1. Why do you feel that you are the best person for the job – of Kristiansand Pirates Elite Team Head Coach?

Not only because of my «trener kompetanse level» in the NBBF, but I dedicate a lot of my free time to the team and care for their well-being. I try to teach them things about life and how basketball or any sport for that matter, are closely related.

2. What qualities would you look for when looking for new players?

A player that is team oriented, coachable, listens and does what is needed for the success of the team. Not to forget a good attitude, not a selfish person.

3. What would you try to teach your players besides basketball?

To take responsibility and be accountable for his/her actions. If you commit to something or say that you will do something then keep your word.

4. What is your strength and weakness as a coach?

My strength is knowing how to adjust our playing strategy to match the type of players that I have on the team. My weakness, sometimes wanting more out of my guys when I know they can do better never settle for a so-so performance.

5. How would you deal with a player that complained about the head coach or the program?

Talk to that person and see what the issue is, door is always open to hear issues, but always keep the best interest of the team in mind.

6. What are three things that your previous experience in coaching have taught you?

Any team can beat another team if they want it bad enough. Never underestimate your opponent. Remember that win or lose, the main goal is to always have fun when playing.

7. What person and or event has had the most influence on your life?

My wife and becoming a parent has changed my perspective towards coaching.

8. How has coaching affected your life?

You learn more about people and figuring out the different personalities to motivate and challenge them.

9. What is the main goal of the Kristiansand Pirates Elite Team basketball program?

To eventually play in the top national series, while representing the city of Kristiansand and the Southern region of Norway in the best way possible.

10. What are your coaching goals?

Get the best out of each individual while keeping basketball interesting and fun.

11. What are your best and worst memories in coaching?

Worst, enduring the long losing streak in the BLNO, best finally breaking the losing streak.

12. Do you believe in Santa Claus….Julenissen?

Yes, also the Easter Bunny and the Tooth Fairy.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year…..see you in Idda Arena 🙂

(se www.pirates.no og Pirates Facebook for mer info)