CRO/GER - Mamic takes up Alba coaching role

BERLIN (BBL) - Former Croatia international Matej Mamic has conceded his playing days are numbered and he has joined the coaching staff at Alba Berlin.

Mamic, 32, wasted no time in applying for his new role after it became apparent he would never play at the top level again after suffering a serious spinal injury in November 2005.

He has signed a deal that will keep him in the German capital until 2009.

"I never thought my career would end," Mamic said. "I tried everything I could. But it just wasn't enough to play professional sports again. So I had to face reality and look for new duties."

Mamic, who played at the 2001, 2003 and 2005 EuroBasket competitions for Croatia, admitted he was thrilled to still be at Alba.

"I know I'm lucky to be with an organisation like Alba, who really helped me after my injury, and now is giving me a chance for a new start.

"I would like to thank the club, the fans and the Berlin hospital, who always supported me."

Mamic began his career in 1995 with KK Split. In 1999 he transferred to Galatasaray and in 2000 returned to Croatia, signing for Cibona Zagreb, where he became one of the stars of the club.

With Cibona, he won the 2001, 2002 and 2004 Croatian title and 2001 and 2002 cups. He was crowned the Croatian league's top defender in 2003-04.

Mamic moved to Berlin in 2004 and he soon won over fans with his intensive style and aggressive defense.

He was named Alba captain in his second season with the club and in 2006 BBL fans named him the most-likeable player in the German league.