History repeats itself for the Newcastle Eagles men this season after the club reinforced its longstanding relationship with one of the region’s leading education providers.
Newcastle College University Centre is the new main sponsor for the most successful franchise in British basketball history.
And Marc Steutel’s men have gone back to the future — reprising a striking front of jersey partnership that proved hugely successful two years ago.
Alan Fenton, Deputy Principal of Newcastle College, said: “We are very proud to return to the front of the Newcastle Eagles kit for the upcoming season.
“As an anchor institution in the North East, working in partnership for the benefit of our local community is central to everything we do.
“We have worked closely with the Eagles for more than five years now, providing our students with unique experiences and showcasing the transformative opportunities offered through higher technical education and sport to those across our region.
“I am looking forward to strengthening our partnership with our neighbours as both Newcastle College University Centre and Newcastle Eagles enter an exciting year ahead.”
Newcastle University College Centre was the name up front and centre during Marc Steutel’s first season as head coach.
And as he approaches his third year at the Eagles’ helm, it’s a special partnership that has extra meaning for the Great Britain playcaller.
“I spent seven very happy and successful years working at Newcastle College and I know how committed the staff and students are,” he said.
“The college sits at the heart of the local community but it has a far wider regional and national reach that aligns perfectly with the Eagles.
“Newcastle College University Centre has an outstanding reputation for excellence within the education sector and we’re proud to carry their name on our jerseys again.”
The next 12 months represent an exciting period for both organisations — friends and neighbours for many years.
Less than a mile separates the Eagles’ Scotswood Road home from the college’s city centre campus.
And Newcastle College University Centre staff, students and college partners are amongst the staunchest supporters of the men in black.
A familiar name on the front of the Eagles’ jerseys coincides with a move to legendary kit supplier Reebok.
And Managing Director Paul Blake can’t wait to see a tried and tested partnership taken to the next level with the launch of Super League Basketball (SLB) later this month.
“There’s a lot going on — and all of it positive — within British basketball right now and it feels like the right time to reinforce a very special relationship,” he said.
“It will be fantastic to see the Newcastle College University Centre name front and centre throughout the Super League season.
“And we’ll be shouting about their great work right across Europe as we head into our second season of European North Basketball League action.
“The team at the college are good friends and great supporters of basketball and the local community. This is a partnership that continues to go from strength to strength.”
The Eagles men are set to open up their pre-season programme on Sunday with a homecourt clash against the Newcastle Knights.
The SLB season gets underway on September 27 with Sheffield Sharks the visitors in the rebooted Trophy competition.
