La Trobe University Eagles men begin their season this Saturday (24/3) against the Blackburn Vikings at the Veneto Club. The Vikings competed in Division 1 last season and have something to prove to the Eagles. The top 3 teams from Division 2 (LTU, Macaabi, Warragul) have joined with the bottom 5 Division 1 teams (Blackburn, Coburg, Melbourne University, Chelsea, Shepparton) to form the new division 2 The game tips off at 8pm and for the benefit of those who will be making the trek to the Veneto Club we have a preview of this season's LTU men's team.

The MVP

Last year's Big V Division 2 MVP, Tim Sturrock, returns to the Eagles nest for 2007. Averaging a league leading 26.6 points per game and an excellent 10.2 rebounds per game in 2006, Sturrock is aiming to bring his quality game back for another shot at the title. This year, things will be different as teams are aware of Tim's all star calibre game. Never short of confidence, Sturrock wont let the added defensive pressure rattle him.

The Recruits

When Monash Uni folded their Big V programme at the end of 2006 it appeared that no positives would come out of it. However, Monash's prized centre, Andrew Oliver has now changed colours and will don the red and black of LTU for 2007. A former all star 5 selection, Oliver adds depth and size to an already intimidating frontline.

Former LTU player, Davin Sgargetta, returns to the fold after a season with Shepparton where he moved for work purposes. With a penchant for nailing 3s and quick feet, Dags adds strength to the LTU back court.

Probably the most underrated pick up for LTU is the return of Humphrey himself, Neill McCormack. Neill took a season off from playing to complete his podiatry studies and is now refreshed and raring to go. A proven scorer, McCormack adds a much needed defensive presence to the backcourt. Neill has the size. strength and speed to guard smaller and larger opponents alike, adding another dimension to an already strong lineup.

Stepping Up

Dubbed the Big Ticket, it's time for giant Zimbabwian, Neville Chivhanganye to deliver on his potential. Showing glimpses of brilliance last season in which he averaged double figure rebounds in less than 25 minutes per game look for Neville to step up as he establishes his 10 foot wingspan in the post!

Returning Soldiers

Perhaps the most deadly long range player in the league, Peter Leimonitis is determined to win a championship. Averaging 19.7 ppg and 9.0rpg in 2006, Leimonitis has the tools to to rip a team apart inside and outside. The cagey veteran is one to watch!

Dean Sutton finally enters a season healthy! Last season, Sutton never really recovered from preseason surgery and struggled against quicker guard. This year, the teams unassuming floor leader is healthy and is ready to show why is one of the top point guards in the league.

Captain Croall, Josh Croall is suiting up for another season after a steady 2006 that was cruelly disrupted by a broken hand just prior to the playoffs. The injury does not seem to have affected his confidence and the JRock is looking set to deliver his Prime Time game in 2007!

The Bushtucker man, Dev Study is back from saving Australia's turtles up North. Dev's smooth moves and cool beard make him a force to be reckoned with.

The Energizer bunny, Paul DiMarzio is also back to weave his web of fear on his opponents. Paul's speed and deadly pull up shot have defenders shaking in their boots when he comes screaming down the court.

Zaac Rogers returns in his Mr Reliable mould. Deadly with his baseline triple or baseline drive and leaner, Zaacs oncourt intensity provides an example for the young players in the team.

The Development List

Last years rookies look to continue their development in the Big V and are looking to prove their value to the LTU machine.

Matt Bates had a good finish to 2006 and has shown solid form for LTU in Diamond Valley's Civic League on Monday nights. Matt is quickly becoming an inside outside threat and will provide quality minutes this season.

Bryn Philpott-Evans showed flashes of brilliance in 2006 and needs to become more consistent in 2007. He is an excellent defender and as his decision making improves he will become a valuable contributor.

A late addition to the rookie list in 2006, Chris Adkins has the athleticism and ability to become a quality guard. An inconsistant Civic League attendance ha sput him behind the 8 ball going into the season. Once he gets himself in order, look for some dramatic improvement.

Wayne Chibwana has brought a defensive element to his game during the preseason. His amazingly quick spring and long arms surprise many taller opponents. An inconsistant training attendance has also put him a little behind going in to the season.

The Coach

Last years Division 2 Coach of the Year, Andrew "Sarge" Whelan returns for year 4 at the helm. Sarge believes in a no frills basketball concept and it has been readily embraced by his players. He has worked hard to get the team to this point and he is confident that the team will contend for the title in 2007.

The Season Ahead

The Eagles first game will be 8pm at Veneto Club, Bulleen against the Blackburn Vikings on Saturday 24th March. The Eagles first home game will be the following week, Sunday 1st April at Darebin Stadium against the Shepparton Gators.

2007 LTU EAGLES BIG V DIVISION 2 MEN'S TEAM

• Chris Adkins
• Matthew Bates
• Wayne Chibwana 
• Neville Chivhanganye
• Josh Croall (c) 
• Paul DiMarzio 
• Peter Leimonitis 
• Neill McCormack
• Andrew Oliver 
• Bryn Philpott-Evans 
• Davin Sgargetta 
• Tim Sturrock 
• Dean Sutton (vc) 
• Devin Sturdy 
• Isaac Rogers 

         Coach - Andrew Whelan