Sharks’ new forward Horstmann hopes for silverware
One Health Sharks Sheffield are continuing to put together a formidable squad for the 2013/14 season with the announcement of Patrick Horstmann as the latest addition to the club’s roster.
The 26-year-old native of Wettenburg, Germany, joins after completing his senior year at Northwood University, West Palm Beach, Florida. Prior to that he had spells at Urspring and Ehingen in his home country.
Horstmann, who is a 6’ 7” forward, finished his career with the Northwood Seahawks as their all-time leading rebounder with 1154 and second leading scorer of all-time with 1501 points. In his final season, Horstmann averaged 9.9 points per game with 6.9 rebounds and shot 48.4% from the field.
In addition, he has represented the German national team at Under 16, Under 18 and Under 20 levels.
Speaking of his decision to move to England, Patrick had this to say: “I have actually never been in England but I have some friends from my university that are from Sheffield and I only heard great things about it.
“I am very excited about getting to know the city and the people of Sheffield. I also look forward to getting to know my teammates and everybody in the Sheffield Sharks organisation and I hope we defend the BBL Trophy and finish among the top teams in the league.”
Horstmann was clear about the over-riding factor in his decision to sign for the BBL Trophy holders, after Head Coach, Atiba Lyons, apparently spent a whole day travelling on the road to see Horstmann working out on court: “It showed me his professionalism, how much he cared and wanted me to become a part of the Sheffield Sharks. After our conversations, I knew I wanted to come to become a Shark.”
Eager for the season to begin, Horstmann was awaiting the competition that lay in front of him: “I heard great things about the BBL from my teammate here [at Northwood], who grew up in Britain and Coach Lyons. I also saw some games on YouTube so I expect many hard-fought games. I can’t wait!”
Coach Atiba Lyons is delighted to have landed the German: “Patrick is a great athlete who hits the boards hard and has a good shot. His record at Northwood speaks for itself and I’m impressed by his attitude and work ethic.”
Horstmann becomes the Sharks’ fourth signing of the summer following on from the recent addition of Guard Brian Barbour and the re-signings of Captain Mike Tuck and GB U-20 Guard Nick Lewis.
Season ticket sales for the new season are continuing to do well and supporters are urged to contact the Sharks’ office to secure their seats if they have not done so already.
