Though the bulk of last year’s roster remains intact, Norman has recalled Heat veterans Matt Pearce and the Tye brothers, Bobby and Dom, alongside two new faces.

18-year-old talent Chaz Bishop earned a call up to the senior side while former assistant coach Shane Atkinson made an irrefutable case for selection during last month’s squad trial. 

“It’s pretty exciting to see Bobby and Dom come back into the side,” Norman said.

“They’ve both had experience captaining the Heat and were long-term players before having a few years away.

“I think Bobby was our point guard for eight or nine years and there’s plenty of good experience from playing SEABL with Albury-Wodonga Bandits there too.

“Dom’s had a few years off travelling but there’s plenty of skill there and it’s good to see them back.”

Pearce is another welcome returnee with Norman placing a high value on the six-foot-nine centre’s size and skill.

“He’s an absolute man-mountain but he’s also a very smart player.”

“Matty hasn’t played with us for a while is coming back after five years, so he’s still finding his groove but I know he’s working hard in the gym and I think he’ll be a nice addition to the side.”

Bishop was another who caught the coach’s eye with a standout performance at trials and is expected to push for playing time alongside fellow youngsters Eddie Merkel and Jacob Edwards.

“Chaz is a very exciting player and very strong too, so we’re keen to see how he goes and then you’ve also got Shane coming into the side,” Norman said.

“He’s been around the Wagga scene for a long time and he was very handy at trials – he’s got a very cool head and I think he’ll be a calming influence on the squad when it comes to making plays.”

Incumbent skipper Zac Maloney has again been named to lead the side and only one import slot remains on the Heat list for next season.

“We’re very close to signing someone –  just waiting on a signature,” Norman said.

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Zac Maloney, Bobby Tye, Shanon Klein, Shaun Carter, Scott Hare, Dom Tye, Matt Pearce, Shane Atkinson, Miguel Escandon, Jacob Edwards, Eddie Merkel, Chaz Bishop, Pat Mecham-Hoare (development), Noah Taylor (development), Joshua Cochrane (development), John Norman (coach), Cam Mackenzie (assistant coach), Paul Prowse (assistant coach), Amanda Norman (team manager)