Basketball: American Bratschi new manager for Hawks

Jay Bratschi

American Jay Bratschi will take over as Hawks general manager at the end of this season.

IMS Payroll Hawks chairman David Aflallo says Bratschi has a wealth of experience in sport management having worked in professional franchises such as the NBA's Miami Heat and MLB's Triple A Affiliate to the Houston Astros, the New Orleans Zephyrs, and the Single A affiliate to the Colorado Rockies, the Asheville Tourists. He also spent five years with the Professional Golf Association (PGA).

Bratschi, from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, moved with his wife to New Zealand in 2011 and for the last season has been Manawatu Jets general manager.

"We're thrilled to secure Jay. He'll bring a wide range of skills to the organisation, especially in attracting commercial partners and creating an exciting game day experience for our loyal fans," says Aflallo.

Bratschi has already spent some time in Hawke's Bay and had signalled to outgoing general manager Tanya Dearns he was keen on a sports role here.

"What is there not to like about Hawke's Bay? The lifestyle is a big drawcard as is the role with the Hawks," he said.

"I've admired the impact Tanya Dearns has had on the Hawks over the last couple of years. The team is seen as professionally run and having a family orientated culture."

He says although there are some immediate challenges such as deciding on a coaching structure for 2016 and beyond, he believes there is stability in the team's structure and a genuine desire to be back at the top of the league.

The quality of the NBL here impresses him and he would like to see regular TV coverage as there was in the past.

"It's a great league and, if packaged well, could become highly rated viewing.

"Basketball is a growth participation sport and the American professional league has a strong following, which I think can translate into interest in our league," Bratschi says.

The Bay franchise sacked coach Liam Flynn a fortnight ago saying the Australian wasn't the "right fit" for the Hawks' culture.

Veteran co-skipper Paora Winitana has been appointed player/coach for the seventh-placed Hawks who have missed the cut for NBL playoffs and play last-placed and winless Taranaki Mountainairs this Saturday.