SBL fixtures announced

The SBL formally released its 2019 season fixture yesterday, with the Printsync South West Slammers men’s and women’s programs handed intriguing schedules.

In the men’s fixture, John Triscari’s side open their campaign at home to the East Perth Eagles on Sunday, March 17, at 2pm.

It will be a quick turnaround, with the squad then heading to Geraldton the next Saturday for one of the longest bus trips (581km) in the league as they take on the Buccaneers.

They then return home the next Saturday and take on perennial post-season threat Willetton.

The final three weeks of the season could also prove challenging – particularly if a playoffs spot is on the line – with return duels against the Buccs (home), Tigers (away) and Goldfields Giants (away) in the final round of the season.

In the women’s draw, Nathan Grover’s side open at home against the 2017 wooden spoon Eagles, before facing three top four sides – Tigers, Redbacks and Lightning – from last season in a gruelling stretch.

Both senior Slammers programs will host 13 home games at the Eaton Recreation Centre in 2019.

Of those matches, two will be played on Friday night and Sunday afternoon, with the remainder played on Saturday nights.

Slammers vice-chairman Steve Hawkins was pleased overall with the outcome of the schedule.

“We worked really closely with BWA in achieving ideal outcomes for the fixture,” he said.

“BWA were really accommodating with what we needed in terms of being able to maximise our attendances. We are happy with our Friday and Saturday night games and were keen to limit our Sunday afternoon games during the WABL junior competition season.”

2019 SBL season – key dates

Week 1: Sunday, March 17 v East Perth Eagles at Eaton Recreation Centre; WSBL grand final: Friday, August 30; MSBL grand final: Saturday, August 31.