The Westfield Sharks
Sheffield are pleased to announce the appointment
of England favourite Peter Scantlebury MBE as their
new head coach for the 2003/04 season.
The assistant coach
at the Sharks had spent the last two seasons in a
supporting role to former playcaller Chris Finch,
as well as leading the team from the floor as the
team captain in previous seasons.
Scantlebury, who began
his career in 1981 for Guildford, became one of the
most highly respected English players to participate
in the British Basketball League (BBL). Aside from
achieving many accolades throughout his playing career,
the pinnacle was his achievements for the England
squad, where he received a total of 131 caps. Upon
retiring from playing for England, Scantlebury was
then recruited as assistant coach under Laszlo Nemeth.
The 39-year-old Londoner
joined the Sheffield club halfway through the season
of 1998, when American Matt Gaudio was forced to retire
through injury. 'Scants', who had chosen to resign
from his then club Newcastle Eagles, was asked to
consider taking over the spot and help the Sharks'
campaign.
Following a successful
spell, the club felt that Scantlebury's ambitions
to coach could be realised by appointing him as an
assistant coach with a view to succeeding Finch at
some stage.
"The philosophy
of the club has always been to promote our own talent
and recruit from within," said General Manager
Sarah Backovic, "It was always a possibility
that Chris would eventually move on and we wanted
to replace him with someone who shared the same values
and work ethics."
Although it all seems
to have happened at a faster pace than expected, Scantlebury
is relishing the challenge.
"I really can't
wait to get started. I am delighted that I have been
given this opportunity at Sheffield, where I have
enjoyed the last four years as a player and an assistant
coach," said Scantlebury. "I didn't realise
I would be retiring as a player this year, but the
chance has come along and I am looking forward to
the challenge."
As the internal appointment
has been made, there has been no time wasted behind
the scenes.
"As I am already
familiar with the workings of the club, it makes the
settling in period a little easier," continued
Scantlebury. "I am keen to get my team in place
and I am looking forward to the season ahead."
