Joe Bielak will return for his second season at Hemel Storm, having re-signed ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Joe joined last year having previously plied his trade with the Loughborough Riders. He showed great potential with his accurate three-point shooting and his hustling, hard-working nature proving very useful to Mark Clark’s league-winning side.
Injuries plagued him throughout his first season with the club and he was unable to play any part in the playoffs due to an elbow complaint. Nonetheless, he remained an influential member in the locker room and brought with him bundles of enthusiasm and encouragement, making him a much-loved member of the squad.
Alongside his Storm commitments, Bielak is in the process of completing a Master’s Degree at the University of Hertfordshire and he will continue his educational journey this year. As a result, he will again compete for the side in the BUCS Premier Division, where Herts will hope to build on last year's league title and playoff semi-final qualification.
Joe said “I’m really excited to return to Hemel for my second season with the club. Last year was a great year with many amazing teammates, staff members and fans! There was definitely some ups and downs, but this allowed us to learn a lot too.
“I’m super excited to see what next year brings working with our new Head Coach, Jake, and the rest of the team. We have some unfinished business that I’m sure we’re all ready to tackle!”
Joe joins a talented roster so far assembled by Head Coach Jake Rothauge and there’s not long left until the season begins. Head to the Fanbase app for ticket details ahead of our season-opening friendly against Team Solent Kestrels on Sunday 14th September, with our BCB Trophy campaign starting the following weekend.
Written by Callum Humphrey
Photo credit – TGD Visuals