Beveridge is well placed to judge having coached Martin at junior and senior level, including an NBL championship, but he doesn’t hesitate to put them in the same category. 

“I’ve never come across a player like him with that drive and maturity, not at his age,” Beveridge said.

“Damian Martin has come back from knee reconstructions, a snapped Achilles, broken jaws and other injuries. 

“I’ve known that guy my whole life and he’s one of the most resilient, tough SOBs ever. Angus Glover’s up there with him. 

And the former junior Boomer has needed every ounce of it in recent seasons having undergone three knee reconstructions in as many years.

The mental toughness and dedication he’s show on the comeback trail has been enough for the Hawks to re-sign the 20-year-old for two more years.

Beveridge is confident the flame-haired guard will realise the potential that saw him pique the interest of NBA clubs as a junior.

“He’s one of the most talented juniors in the world, not just in Australia,” Beveridge said. 

“When he did his injury there were five NBA teams all over him, so he’s been identified and they’re still checking in on him. 

“We’ve got faith in him and we have to back the guy. His injuries have been horrific but his mindset and drive to get back is just amazing.” 

The faith shown in locking him down for two more years certainly isn’t lost on Glover himself.

“I’m very happy and very grateful they’ve looked after me,” Glover said.

“For them to stick around and help me out for the next couple of years and show faith in me, I’m very appreciative of that.

“It’s been my goal to play in the NBL ever since I was a little fan running around watching Mat [Campbell] and Sav [Glen Saville] play for the Hawks.

“It’s my goal to play professionally anywhere in the world and also put on that green and gold singlet for the Boomers one day. 

“I’ve tasted the green and gold at a junior level but I want to experience that at a senior level.

“It’s been a roller coaster ride and I’m definitely looking forward to the challenge coming back next year.”

Hawks general manager Mat Campbell, who has watched Glover rise through the ranks as a junior, says the club had no hesitation in inking the deal.

“To be able to support an Illawarra Junior is a no-brainer for the club, especially when that junior comes with such promise on court and off,” Campbell said.

“Any injury to a professional athlete is gut wrenching. It can totally derail some, but while it’s slowed his game, I’m confident he is someone who will definitely be coming out bigger and better.

“We can’t wait for him to join the boys back on the court. He has a really exciting future ahead and we’re really excited to see it launch right here at home.”