Noelia Cacheiro has made the difficult decision to step down from her role as head coach of the Seriös Group Newcastle Eagles’ women’s team.

The Spaniard opted to make the move in order to focus on ongoing work commitments outside of the club.

Cacheiro leaves Newcastle at a time when club bosses can restructure ahead of a return to action against London Lions on November 18.

And Eagles’ Managing Director Paul Blake said: “The club would like to thank Noelia sincerely for all of her hard work during the past two seasons.

“She has moved the team and the organisation forward significantly in a very short space of time.

“We wish Noelia all the best for the future and will remain in communication with a valued member of the North East’s basketball community.”

Cacheiro joined the Eagles in January 2022 and led the women in black to the playoffs last season. Returning a core of key players for the 2022/23 campaign, the experienced playcaller led Newcastle to victory against Manchester Giants on the opening weekend of the season. But Cacheiro contacted club officials earlier this week to explain her decision to step down with immediate effect.

In departing Cacheiro said: “I am deeply grateful for the incredible journey I’ve has as Head Coach of the Women’s programme at the Eagles.

“It is with great sadness that I am stepping away from this role. I believe this group has the potential to disrupt the league and I am looking forward to supporting the team in other ways.

“‘Thankful’ is the word that comes to mind thinking about these past few months. I am most grateful to the Eagles organisation for their support over time, and all the people who have now become friends.

“I am excited to watch the Eagles soar to even greater heights in the future. ‘Once an Eagle, always an Eagle’.”