Decorated Ballarat basketball figure Eric Hayes will take on the role of Ballarat Rush head coach, three weeks after it was announced he was stepping down as Miners coach.
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After taking Miners to the SEABL grand final, Hayes felt it was in the side’s best interest to hand the reins over to Nathan Cooper-Brown, while leaving the door ajar for what his future held.
Having previously offered to assist former Rush coach David Flint, who lives out of town, once Flint decided to step down as Rush coach, the stars aligned for Hayes to again put his coaching hat on.
“I have spoken about coaching Rush in the past, and I have coached them in the past,” Hayes said.
“It was just an opportunity to continue coaching, I reckon the girls program has a rich tradition in being successful.
“It was a good opportunity to help some youngsters to continue to grow and progress.”
Hayes, who signed a two-year contract, said his coaching mantra would not change. Believing the key to success was providing the right environment and guidance.
“What I did this year with the boys I think is really successful and enjoyable. I’m not changing anything as far as having good people around and creating a positive environment they can work in.”