Newcastle Eagles have turned to one of the most popular figures in North East basketball to lead the franchise’s groundbreaking women’s programme.

Chloe Gaynor is in her fourth season with the women in black and the experienced forward replaces Matt Newby at the helm.

One of Super League Basketball’s most familiar faces has enjoyed significant success with Newcastle after joining the club in 2021.

And Gaynor follows in illustrious footsteps after becoming the Eagles’ first player-coach since Fabulous Flournoy.

“I’m extremely proud and excited to be given this opportunity and I can’t wait to get started,” said the GB Under 20 international.

“Newcastle Eagles is where I belong and I’ve been fortunate to work with some fantastic players and staff during the last four years.

“This feels like the right move at the right time and I’m lucky enough to be taking over from Matt at a time when our fanbase is continuing to grow.

“Women’s basketball is gaining popularity year on year and there is so much potential for the sport in this part of the world.”

Gaynor will be assisted by Luke Orwin at Manchester this weekend after getting to work in her new role during the last 24 hours.

And Newcastle’s Managing Director, Paul Blake, is convinced the club has made the right appointment following Newby’s decision to step down due to personal reasons.

“Chloe has gained a huge amount of coaching experience as part of the Eagles Academy team during the last three seasons,” he said.

“And her record and reputation as a player is there for all to see.

“Many years ago we took a gamble on a guy called Fabulous Flournoy, when we promoted from within and combined his role as a player with that of a coach.

“That worked out well and we’re excited to hand Chloe the same opportunity.”

Gaynor joined Newcastle after a spell with NCAA Division 1 Long Beach State University and has been an ever-present during a transitional period for the Eagles.

A key player under Newby and previous head coaches, the former Barking Abbey Crusader is a passionate advocate for women’s basketball and the community.

And in tandem with Orwin — a permanent fixture on the Newcastle bench — Gaynor looks set to lead the club into an exciting new era.

“Chloe will continue to be supported by assistant coach Orwin and the rest of the women’s team staff,” added Blake.

“As a franchise we’re right behind her and looking forward to seeing how she grows into her new role backed by the extensive experience of the wider Eagles organisation.

“That includes men’s head coach Marc Steutel and Eagles Community Foundation development manager Ian MacLeod, both of whom will be working closely with Chloe.”

The women’s team tip-off against Manchester Basketball with Gaynor at the helm on Saturday afternoon in their return to SLB action following the international break.