In securing Blair the Swinburne Kilsyth Cobras have locked up both of their imports for 2012 after it was announced that Zach Malvik shall return to Kilsyth after a solid 2011 season.

Garfield Blair graduated from Stetson University in 2009 after four years with the Hatters he twice earned All-Atlantic Sun Conference honours and has been described as one of the most athletic two-way players to ever wear a Stetson Uniform.

Averaging 12.9 points, 5.5 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game, Blair graduated from Stetson as the university’s fourth leading all-time scorer with 1,582 points and holds 11th spot in rebounding with 676 career boards. In his senior year Garfield led his team in scoring (17.3) and rebounding (7.7) as well as making the top ten in scoring for the Atlantic Sun Conference.

Swinburne Cobras Head Coach Grant Wallace believes that Blair has the right qualities and is a great fit for Kilsyth after Quincy Henderson decided not to return in 2012.

“Garfield comes highly recommended by Coach Derek Waugh from Stetson University as a quality person of high standing, a great competitor and a wonderful rounded game. From the brief of the player we required to replace Q we believe Garfield ticks all the boxes and will be a wonderful addition to our Club”.

“Blair has big shoes to fill in replacing the versatile and hardworking Quincy Henderson but we believe he will do that and hopefully more. We see Garfield fitting the starting three spot and will meet our requirements at both ends of the floor”.

“A special note of thanks for the efforts and support from Stetson University’s former Head Coach Derek Waugh, who is a great friend of Kilsyth Basketball in helping us to secure Garfield” Wallace concluded.

Blair is very excited about coming to Australia and joining the Swinburne Cobras for 2012.

“I can’t wait to start the season; I have heard great things about the people and the culture at Kilsyth especially from my former Stetson teammate Tim Lang. I am really looking forward to playing with Tim and the team and really see us being a contender for the 2012 Championship.

“I plan on brining an all-round game to the SEABL competition and will be looking to try my absolute best in helping the team secure that Championship they have been so close to over the past few years. Garfield concluded.

The Swinburne Kilsyth Cobras officially commence their preseason in mid-January 2012 for their season opener on 17 March 2012.  

Stay tuned to www.cobras.net.au for all the off-season news, player signings and updates.

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