The stars of Newcastle Eagles dropped some slam dunks as they celebrated the launch of their community foundation at Sunderland College’s brand new sports facilities.

The British Basketball League winners showed their support for the new partnership by training at the college’s state-of-the-art sports hall where they showcased their skills to a selection of sports students.

Sunderland College has joined forces with the Eagles Community Foundation to encourage young people in the city to take up the sport.

The group, which was set-up in 2006 to boost basketball participation in the region, will be holding regular training sessions and competitions at the college’s new sports building at its Bede Campus.

Newcastle Eagles head coach, Fab Flournoy, said: “Sunderland College facilities are state-of-the-art and the team really enjoyed training at the new venue.  We are thrilled to support the development of a new basketball club site in Sunderland and this facility and partnership support from the college will be key to its success.”

The Eagles Community Foundation launched the programme at Sunderland College this week, which is being supported by Tyne and Wear Sport through Satellite Club Sport England Funding.