JOSH THORNE says it is a “dream come true” to be announced as Reading Rockets’ new assistant head coach.
The news follows the recent change of manager from Manuel Pena Garces to Alan Keane, who previously held the position as the number two.
Thorne, 33, arrives as part of the new-look coaching structure having been a volunteer coach with the Rockets since 2006.
“Working with the Division 1 team has been a goal of mine for the past 12 seasons,” he said.
“Having coached boys and girls, both senior women and men and now getting an opportunity to work with Alan, the rest of the team staff and the players is really a dream come true.
“I am looking forward to getting stuck into the programme we are developing and taking us that step closer to the BBL.”
And Rockets chairman Gary Johnson says Thorne has fully earned this new role.
“Josh is the epitome of the way coaches should be – humble, committed to the players within the club, honest and self-reflective,” he said.
“It’s the combination of these traits that truly helps to deliver significant improvement over time.
“Josh has been on a wonderful journey at the Rockets from player to performance coach and has always lived his life committed to improving basketball for all people in the Reading area and beyond.
“This appointment is as deserved as any I can remember.”
