Stibners decided to retire after being part of Australia’s Paralympic silver medal team in London four years ago, but has since returned and is setting his sights on Rio.

In the meantime, he leads the Rollerhawks charge when the new season begins at Broadmeadow this weekend.

Wollongong finished atop the NWBL ladder, but missed the grand final, leaving Stibners more motivated than ever. “It was very disappointing, especially after finishing first and not even making it,” he said. “We still have the same core group and added a couple of players, so there’s no shortage of motivation.

“We know we have a pretty good team, so hopefully we can start well this weekend and go from there.”

In a packed round one schedule, the NWBL will hold a gala weekend in Victoria. The Rollerhawks – boosted by the inclusion of Michael Auprince and Sam White, both who have been playing in the US – have four games, starting with Perth on Friday night. They also clash with the other Western Australian team, the Red Dust Heelers, as well as Kilsyth Cobras and Queensland Spinning Bullets.

However, the weekend also doubles as a launch for Australian Paralympic places. “I definitely want to be there again,” he said.

“After we lost the final to Canada, I was physically exhausted, so it was an easy choice to say ‘see you later’.

“But since I’ve been keen to come back and I’d love to go to Rio.”