36ers finalise new High Performance team

The Adelaide 36ers have finalised a reshaped High Performance team including the promotion of Tristan Chai to Director of Health and Performance.

Having served as the club’s head physiotherapist across the last eight years, Chai will take on an expanded role for NBL26, overseeing all aspects of player health and performance.

36ers General Manager of Basketball Operations, Matt Weston says Chai’s knowledge of the organisation and his dedication to player performance and wellbeing made him the ideal choice to lead the High Performance team into the new season.

“Tristan’s experience and understanding of our program as well as his forward-thinking approach to player care really set him apart,” said Weston.

“We’re grateful for the work he has done for our club over the past eight years. His promotion reflects our confidence in his ability to take our performance standards to the next level.

“With at least 33 regular season games, NBL26 will be the longest regular season we’ve had, so it’s never been more important to have a real focus on innovative high performance strategies to bring out the best in our players.”

Chai will begin his new duties immediately ahead of players returning for pre-season training in the coming weeks.

“I’m excited to step into this role at such an exciting time for our club,” said Chai.

“We have a really unique group of athletes this season and I’m committed to providing personalised plans to help each individual reach their full potential.”

As part of the new High Performance team, the club has appointed Callan Prider as the Head of Strength and Conditioning following a year supporting the team and several years developing NBL calibre athletes.

“Callan brings a high performance mindset with high standards and a results-driven approach,” said Weston of the appointment.

“Under Tristan’s leadership, our High Performance team has a clear vision around ensuring our players are physically prepared to navigate the season.”

The first group of 36ers players started pre-season training on Monday.