Hot on the heels of the announcement that Rachael Bland will be part of the Newcastle Eagles Academy Coaching staff comes the confirmation that she will also return to the Women’s Super League Basketball roster for 2024/25.

This will be Bland’s 11th consecutive season lining up for her hometown club and 12th in all. The veteran 5’ 8” guard also had a couple of playing seasons at Leeds Carnegie and a campaign at Lakeshead University on her resume that started back in 2009/10.

Bland will double up her role as part of head coach Matt Newby’s 2024/25 women’s roster with her head coaching duties for the Eagles Academy Under-14 Girls’ Team.

Newby is understandably pleased to be able to announce the retention of an Eagles stalwart as he commented on her signing.

“Rachael is a well-known and respected veteran whose presence is felt both on the court and off it,” said Newby.

“She has a great basketball IQ and experience through many successful campaigns makes us more robust.

“A popular member of the team and fan base it’s great to see her suit up for the 2024/25 season.”

For Bland who only joined the roster late in the piece last February and then saw her season curtailed in April through injury it’s a chance to get back on court and repay the organisation that is close to her heart as she advised.

“I’m thrilled to be back on the court with my hometown team,” Bland added.

“There’s something incredibly special about playing in front of the community that has supported me from the very beginning.

“I’m ready to give it my all and help the team in any way I can to bring even more success to this amazing club!”

Bland will be in attendance from the get-go this season and everyone connected with Newcastle Eagles is delighted to see her return to the Vertu Motors Arena.

Fans will see the Eagles new and returning player’s at The Launch tonight with four more women’s team players to be exclusively introduced for fans in attendance.

Tickets are available in advance or on the Vertu Motors Arena door this evening