Aussie Pacers Celebrate 50 Year Milestone

This Thursday night the Aussie Pacers marked an incredible milestone, celebrating 50 years of continuous participation in the Newcastle Basketball senior competition.

Founded in 1974 by schoolteacher Pat Beisler, the Pacers’ legacy began at Wickham Stadium and has continued across five decades, solidifying their place as a cornerstone of the local basketball community. Originally formed with Pat and his brother Dave, the roster has included a diverse mix of brothers, friends, housemates, colleagues and, more recently, fathers and sons.

While the team has undergone a few name changes, starting as the Lambton Leopards in 1974 to eventually becoming the Aussie Pacers, the core group of players and the team’s spirit have remained constant.

More than 60 players have worn the Pacers singlet over the years, with many loyal members returning season after season. Among the team’s notable figures is Phil Holt, who played for the Pacers from the 1980’s across four decades. Another stalwart is Dr. Peter Hopkins, who has played an incredible 38 consecutive years, balancing his role as both player and team doctor. Canadian born Prof. Ron “Leron” Plotnikoff is another key member, having played for over 22 years.

Pat Beisler, who retired in 2014 after a memorable 40 years with the Pacers, reflected on his time, saying, “The camaraderie, the friendship, the loyalty have all been part of it, plus of course the damn good basketball.” Now, a decade later, his words still ring true.

As they celebrate this incredible milestone, their legacy extends beyond the games played and premierships won, to the bonds they’ve formed and the generations of players and families who have been a part of this journey.

For the Aussie Pacers, it’s more than just basketball—it’s about community, continuity, and the joy of the game.

Current Aussie Pacers (2024 Roster):

• • Dr Peter Hopkins – age 66 (played for the last 38 years – without missing a comp)
  • Prof Ron Plotnikoff  – age 65 (played 1987-94;  and then again from 2010 – 2024 (22 years))
  • Mikisha Plotnikoff (son of Ron)
  • Peter Raynor – age 67 (played in the 1980’s and again since 2018 (approx. 10 years)
  • Jeremy Schwarz (played for the past 12 years)
  • Nate Rapley
  • David Quigly
  • Rod Linnette
  • Toby Whaleboat