WANGARATTA will not field a team in the women's Country Basketball Leagues this season, owing in part to a lack of availability for the full season from players and an inability to secure a coach for the squad.

Wangaratta Basketball Inc. president Adam Maher said the decision was difficult, but unavoidable given the situation.

"The biggest thing this year was we couldn't get a coach," he said.

"I looked at doing it myself but I've got lots of Wangaratta basketball teams and couldn't afford to take on another one.

"We also couldn't get an absolute, full commitment for the full season from all of the girls.

"It's heart wrenching."

Maher guaranteed the board would use the next 12 months to get the program together for its return next season.

Wangaratta's men's team are amped and ready for a return to the courts, with their first match against Benalla Breakers set for 8pm tomorrow at the Wangaratta Indoor Sports and Aquatic Centre.