Newcastle Eagles owner Paul Blake has praised the vital contribution of Matt Newby after the head coach of the club’s women’s team steps down from the role.

Newby makes his departure from Super League Basketball with immediate effect due to personal reasons.

And the man responsible for reviving the Eagles fortunes last season — leading the team to the 2024 Playoffs Final — will be much missed by the club, its players and supporters alike.

“We fully support Matt with this difficult decision and want to thank him for everything he has done and achieved with our women’s programme over the past 12 months,” said Blake.

“Joining the club in November last year, Matt quickly turned the women’s team around and took them all the way to the Playoffs Final, writing a huge chapter in our women’s franchises history book.

“We understand the complexity of Matt having held two roles during his tenure, taking on our women’s head coach position alongside his directorship at City of Leeds Basketball Club, and appreciate how hard he worked to make that happen.”

“Everyone at the Eagles wishes Matt all the best for the future.”

Newby’s influence as an experienced professional and popular personality ensured a smooth transition into his dual role.

And the highly rated playcaller conceded the decision to step away from the Eagles was far from easy.

“Stepping down from the position at Newcastle was not an easy decision and one that took a great deal of consideration,” he explained.

“I am thankful for the professionalism, care and counsel the organisation has offered at this time.

“I personally want to thank the management, administration and support staff for their unwavering support throughout my tenure.

“My thanks to the players from both the 2023/24 and 2024/25 rosters, whose commitment to the programme and to one another, ensured the team has taken significant strides.

“Additionally, I’d like to show my utmost appreciation to the fans at Newcastle who continue to embrace the women’s game and the women representing their city and region.

“I wish the Eagles the very best in all their endeavours, whether that’s setting the standard in community and club development, the continued evolution of their youth performance pathway, or competing for silverware in both men’s and women’s Super League Basketball.”

Club officials will announce Matt Newby’s successor in due course. Assistant coach Luke Orwin will take the reins during the interim period, ahead of the team’s return to SLB action this Saturday away at Manchester.