Sport + Motorsport
The Southland Sharks have strengthened their roster for the 2026 season, confirming the return of Dane Bertinshaw, Will LegerJack Ramage as the side builds towards its April 10 opener against the Otago Nuggets.
Ramage, a product of Eastern Southland Basketball, is back for his second year with the club after an impressive rookie campaign. The athletic and versatile guard showed steady development throughout his first professional season, earning praise from Head Coach Jonathan Yim.
Yim says, “Jack has elite athleticism and made great strides last season, his first in professional basketball. His potential remains high, and I think after a full year under his belt we’ll continue to see his confidence grow.”
Ramage reflected fondly on his first year in the league.
“I feel like I had one of the best rookie experiences I could’ve had with the Sharks. Making it to the Finals with such a great and talented group of guys and coaches was special.”
He also spoke about the pride of playing in front of his home supporters.
“Every time I stepped onto the floor I felt the overwhelming support from the Sharks fans, and it really doesn’t get much better than that. To show everyone who has put so much time and effort into helping me become the player and person I am today means a tremendous deal to me.”
Yim added, “What excites me most about Jack is that he’s just getting started. His work ethic and desire to get better are evident daily. Southland should be proud! Jack represents this region the right way, and we’re going to keep investing in his growth.”
Rapid League standout Dane Bertinshaw has also recommitted after leading the Sharks’ Rapid League side in scoring last year. He averaged eight points and two rebounds per game while gaining valuable Sal’s NBL experience.
“Last season came with so many learnings, both collectively and individually,” Bertinshaw said. “I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to continue improving my game and to be part of a group that’s committed to getting better together.”
He added, “The culture within the team was a main factor in coming back. Knowing that the majority of the players were returning, I knew I’d be stepping into an environment built on positive energy and constant growth.”
Yim said, “I’m happy to have Dane back with the Sharks this upcoming season. He made tremendous strides both on and off the court. The experience he gained last year in the NBL, along with representing New Zealand in 3x3 internationally, was invaluable. I’m expecting him to take another step in his development. Beyond that, Dane brings great energy and positive vibes to our group.”
Will Leger rounds out the returning trio. After joining from the Auckland Tuatara last season, the Auckland native made an immediate impact and is set for a larger role.
“Will was one of our most improved players last season. It was fun to watch every day in practice how much better he was getting and to see the work he was putting in start to pay off,” Yim said.
“Will is one of those guys everyone loves — to watch, to play with, and to coach. He brings an edge defensively, plays with great pace, and competes every possession. I’m expecting him to take on a more consistent role this upcoming season and have his best year yet. His ceiling is still rising.”
Leger said, “The people and the environment we created last season made coming back an easy choice. The fans are so welcoming and supportive. Every game they showed up for us. Invercargill feels like home, and that makes you want to give everything you have for them.”
He added that supporters can expect “lots of energy and lots of effort. I’m looking forward to building on what we started last season and taking another step together.”
Season memberships are available now through ILT Stadium Southland, with further player announcements expected soon.