SKOUSON Harker is the man to lead Worcester Wolves forward both on and off the pitch, according to the club's director of basketball Mick Donovan.

Wolves experienced a traumatic summer following their difficult first season in the British Basketball League, managing just four wins with their young team.

Wholesale changes have been made by Donovan and chairman Roger Clarke, who are now hoping for a successful campaign under Harker's leadership.

Donovan said: "Last year was a difficult season and we learnt a great deal from the experience, but we have now moved on.

"We have kept the people who we believe can still help the club to move forward, while bringing in head coach Skouson Harker to make his mark in Worcester.

"We firmly believe that we have recruited a passionate, multi-talented basketball man who will lead us both on and off the court."

New-look Wolves have recruited a host of new players for the forthcoming campaign, while retaining three homegrown players - Michael Gayle, Ben Potts and Steve Archer - on their roster.

Harker said: "These guys have the kind of attitude and work ethic that will really help the club.

"Ben is coming off a promising rookie season in the BBL and posted respectable numbers. I like the fact that we can play him at a couple positions and he is up for it.

"Steve is an energy guy that every team needs - he won't back down from anyone.

"He is in full support of our team and is the type of guy that will do whatever it takes to have success.

"Michael had an exciting season and he will certainly play a big part in our campaign this year, his potential is huge."

Colin Dockrell has also joined the Wolves side after a stint in Spain.

The 6'8'' forward joins a front line including 6'10'' Dave Mallon, 6'9'' Shaun Durant and 6'8'' Harker.

Harker added: "Colin is another hard-working player that has some solid moves around the basket and I look forward to helping him develop his game."

Wolves still have hopes that Mallon will fly into the UK in time to make his debut at Milton Keynes Lions tomorrow night (7.30pm tip-off).

German guards Markus Hallgrimson and Chuck Evans bring both flair and experience following exciting careers so far in Europe.

They will be accompanied by the explosive US guard from Florida Anthony Paez, who averaged 27 points-per-game in Denmark last year.

Donovan said: "We have worked really hard to put a positive team on the court for the Wolves' faithful fans.

"They will need some time to gel as a team but this marks a new era for the club as we continue to compete with the big city clubs.

"By playing Milton Keynes Lions, we will hopefully gain some positive experience.

"Dave Mallon may have landed on British soil by then and he may know a few plays.

"This early in the season we are very optimistic, but at the same time we must be realistic as well.

"We will fight until the final buzzer this weekend.

"The experience is far more important to us than the final score.

"I am confident that we can win but we must concentrate on discovering each other's games and becoming a cohesive unit."

The University of Worcester-based Wolves begin their home BBL campaign with the visit of Devon side Plymouth Raiders on Saturday night (7pm tip-off).