Importing power into team
EDGING ever closer to the commencement of their season, the Port City Power have found another key thread to the team fabric, with American import James Cochran arriving in Gladstone yesterday.
Cochran, who hails from Grand Rapids, Michigan in the northern United States, will be an important part of the Power line-up this season, with the team aiming to improve on their tenth place finish last year.
A fatigued Cochran arrived in Gladstone about 1pm yesterday after approximately 20 hours of flying, and was kind enough to speak to The Observer about his plans for season.
Cochran is no stranger to Australian basketball, having played for Mt Gambier in the SEABL last year and has some definite goals for the Power this season.
“I'd like to make the playoffs,” he said.
When asked if he had a message for the people of Gladstone, Cochran said “I'm here, I'm safe.”
Off the court, the point guard was hoping to find employment soon, and is interested in working as PE or history teacher.
Cochran is the not the first American to play for the Power, with the club having an imported player for the women's team last year.
He will be joined by his wife in town, who arrives from the USA today.
Meeting Cochran at the airport was Power coach Blair Smith who said the American's arrival is 'a big step' for the team.
“He's just what we need to get us to the next level,” Smith said.
“He has a lot to offer to our program.”
The power are in an enviable position, with nearly all the players in the area and able to complete a full pre-season.
“It's a bit of a luxury to have the whole team together, so I'm pretty excited,” he said.
Smith is yet to completely finalise his squad, but said everything was “pretty much everything set.”
“It'll be a few young guys battling it out for the last few spots.”
Smith said the squad was nearly at the same playing standard as mid-way through last year having seen the talent on show at the trials last weekend.
“It's a good position to be in,” he said.
By- Liam Butterworth, The Gladstone Observer
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