1983

Season Overview

• Coach: Charlie Ammit 

  • Assistant: Tom Penrose

• Captain: Mike Jones 

• Team MVP: Not awarded 

• Support staff: 

  • Commissioner: Hugh Brandon, Manager: Barry Lee, Trainer: Paul Whiteman

The 1983 season was a challenging one for the Illawarra Hawks, marked by significant roster turnover and on-court struggles. The club faced a tough start with the departure of long-time captain and playmaker Gordie McLeod, who joined the Sydney Supersonics, and the exit of American import Alonzo Weatherly, who returned to the United States. McLeod’s absence was particularly impactful—his leadership and court vision had been central to the team since its inception.

In response, the Hawks added new import Jerry Steurer, who delivered strong all-around performances with averages of 23.7 points, 5.4 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.7 steals per game. The team also welcomed back former NBL MVP Michael Jones one of league’s premier offensive weapon, averaging a remarkable 32.7 points per game—leading both the team and the NBL in scoring—alongside 8.5 rebounds and 1.5 assists.

Despite the firepower from Jones and the valuable addition of Steurer, the Hawks struggled to find consistency, finishing the season with a 4–18 record and missing the playoffs. The combination of roster instability and the loss of a foundational leader in McLeod proved difficult to overcome. It was a season that underscored the growing pains of a team still searching for the right blend of talent and chemistry to compete at the top level of the NBL.