Eagles coach Ian MacLeod is making the move out of the junior coaching ranks this season to step up to the BBL bench alongside head coach Fab Flournoy and assistant Dave Forrester for the start of the 2013-14 season.

Macleod, from Newcastle’s East End and a former pupil at Benfield school, is relishing the role after working with the Eagles junior ranks since his graduation from Sunderland University in 2003; ‘The last few weeks have been really positive, we have a tight group this season and I’m looking forward to working more closely with Fab and Dave as the season commences. It’s a big learning curve to be working with this senior group, but I’m enjoying the experience’.

In recent years Ian McLeod has built a strong resume in the world of performance basketball, including Head Coach at Eagles School of Excellence, EB Regional Performance Centre Head Coach and supporting the England U15 programme, whilst carrying out his main role with Eagles Community Foundation and his head coach role at Gateshead College Sports Academy. His commitments also stretch to running the successful South Tyneside Basketball Club, completing his view of all parts of the player pathway in the North East.

Coach Fab Flournoy said of his new recruit; ‘It’s another step forward for the programme to be able to bring young coaches through and build their knowledge base. Ian is one of a number of young coaches linked to the club that are earning their stripes and building their own reputations which is great to see’,

Eagles are now in full preparation for next Fridays season opener at Sport Central against local rivals Durham Wildcats. Tickets are available by calling 0191 245 3800 or visiting Eagles website at www.newcastle-eagles.com.