Tasmanian Pride: JackJumpers Kick Off Pre-Season with Local Partners

The Tasmania JackJumpers marked the start of their NBL25 season with a unique and humbling tradition: instead of hitting the court, the players swapped their jerseys for high-vis vests and spent the day working alongside Tasmanians at Huon Aquaculture and SRT Logistics, before wrapping up the day at the iconic Willie Smith's Apple Shed.

Head Coach Scott Roth emphasized the importance of this tradition, now in its fourth year, as a way for players to connect with the hardworking people of Tasmania. “For our players, it’s about having a little bit of humble pie and understanding that people are working very hard in Tasmania at their jobs. It’s a privilege to do what we do, and by standing shoulder to shoulder with our sponsors and partners, we hope to connect with Tasmanians, respect their work ethic, and understand the expectations they have of us as professionals,” Roth stated.

Roth, who has been with the JackJumpers since their inception, sees this day as a critical part of building the team’s culture. “This is bigger than basketball. It’s about developing something sustainable that’s going to be here for a long time. For us, connecting with the state means being out in public, being approachable, and investing in each other,” he added.

Team Captain Clint Steindl echoed Roth’s sentiments, highlighting the value of the experience both on and off the court. “Today, we’re back out in the community, swapping out our singlets for high-vis and working shoulder to shoulder with Tasmanians in their daily work life. We’re privileged to do what we do, and it’s important to understand and support the people who have supported us,” Steindl said while reflecting on his time delivering goods around Hobart with SRT Logistics.

Steindl also pointed out the importance of this experience for team bonding, especially with new players joining the squad. “Spending time together in an environment like this, learning about Tasmanian people and Tasmania as a state, helps our growth and connection to the community. It’s a great way to integrate new players into our culture, where accountability and hard work are key,” he remarked.

New JackJumpers player Gorjok Gak also shared his excitement about joining the team and participating in this unique experience. “It’s been great to be part of this team, and today really showed me what the JackJumpers are all about. The work ethic, attention to detail, and connection to the community are things I’ve admired from afar, and now being here, I can see why this team is so special,” Gak said.

The day concluded at Willie Smith’s Apple Shed, where players and staff reflected on the significance of the day, recognizing the hard work of their fellow Tasmanians and reinforcing their commitment to representing the island with pride and humility.

As the JackJumpers prepare for the upcoming season, this first day of practice serves as a reminder of the club’s core values to the community. With the season ahead, the team is more united than ever, ready to embody the spirit of Tasmania both on and off the court.