Landells, Knight, Return to lead VYC Men, Women in 2019

Posted on 23 November, 2018

Mark Landells and Claire Knight have re-signed to lead the Cobra VYC Men’s and Women’s teams, respectively, for the 2019 Big-V season.

After leading Kilsyth to the 2017 state championship, Landells guided the Cobras a 12-10 regular season record in 2018. Despite missing championship starters Ben Ursich (SEABL), Jamie Ahale (college) and Zac Wuersching (age), the 2017 Coach of the Year proved why he is one of the best teachers in the business, leading the Cobras back to the postseason for the second consecutive season. Landells’ tutelage of Mitch Dielemans and Jorden Adnam saw the pair explode in 2018, with Dielemans finishing as the league’s leading scorer while Adnam was named league MVP.

Manager of Basketball Operations, Mark Watkins, is thrilled to have Landells back on board in 2019, and believes his wealth of knowledge and experience will prepare the VYC Men for the eventual transition into senior basketball.

“Having such an experienced coach in Mark teaching our Under 23 Men – and knowing what it takes to become a successful senior player – is a terrific help to our boys as they look to make the jump to the next level,” Watkins said.

While VYC Men are set to lose a number of veteran players – including Adnam – in 2019, Landells detail oriented approach is sure to position a young Cobras team for success in the upcoming season.

Knight returns for a second season at the helm with the VYC Women, following an impressive debut season in 2018. Knight and the Cobra Women returned to prominence in 2018, securing their first postseason berth in five years on the back of a 12-10 record; good for third in the Watson Conference standings. With a number of promising young prospects returning and a year of experience under her belt, Knight and the Cobra Women promise to be an exciting group to watch in 2019, a sentiment echoed by Watkins.