The Wollongong Hawks have signed Mat Campbell for the 2009/10 NBL Season.
Campbell was instrumental in the Hawks' fight for survival earlier this year and will be a key figure in new coach Gordon McLeod's plans to build a competitive team.
The 32-year-old thought his career was over when the Hawks were on the brink of folding in February.
But he soon shelved retirement plans and is almost certain to be named captain for next season.
First Hawks game: Bring on the Wildcats
Click here for the full 2009/10 NBL schedule "Firstly I want to thank the entire community for getting behind the Save the Hawks campaign and giving me the opportunity to play on with the Hawks," Campbell said.
"It's an exciting opportunity for the club and the new community-based organisation. I'm really looking forward to preparing over the next few months and getting ready to compete in front of a soldout crowd at our first home game against the Perth Wildcats (on September 25).
"So far our membership numbers are going very well and interest in sponsorship has been the strongest in years. Over the coming weeks the club will be moving forward with corporate sponsorship discussions and continuing with the Hawks Membership drive online.
"It's a team effort to make sure we keep the Hawks in Wollongong for years to come. That team includes the players, coaching staff, volunteers, administration, our sponsors, supporters and the entire community. I look forward to seeing the corporate community and our supporters getting behind the Hawks this season."
Hawks chief executive Wayne Morris couldn't hide his delight with Campbell's signing.
"Words can't express what Mat has done in the past three months in the fight to save the Hawks,'' Morris said.
"Mat has put in so much time and effort into saving this club and it's a pleasure to be announcing Mat as our first player to be secured for the 2009/10 season.
"His leadership, commitment and passion are those intangible qualities difficult to find in many players.
"He is the current longest standing player to have only played with the one club throughout his entire NBL career. Mat will enter into his 15th season with the Hawks this season which is a testament to his commitment to the community and the club.''
Over the coming weeks the Hawks will be making further player signing announcements.
"We are well on our way of assembling the Hawks for the 2009/10 season,'' Morris said.
"We are currently in discussion with a number of players and we look forward to making further announcements in the coming weeks.''
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