Stockport Spartans are pleased to announce the appointment of ex-Manchester Giants and England international Jason Swaine as the clubs' new senior men's player/coach.

 

In a major coup for the club, Swaine has agreed to take control of the Spartans men's team in their inaugural season in EBL Division 4 in the 2012-13 season. Jason brings huge experience to the Spartans after spells in the British Basketball League with Sheffield Sharks and Manchester Giants. He won the League Trophy and Championship with the Giants in 1999.

 

Since then Swaine has been playing in the EBL leagues and most recently for Huddersfield Heat in EBL Division 3 last year and was ranked in the top five players in the division statistically. He was the high scorer in the division with almost a 26 points per game average. In the 2010 season he led Huddersfield to promotion with a points per game average of almost 31. This also included 7 assists per game and a phenomenal 57% from beyond the 3 point line.

 

Swaine will start putting his team together with immediate effect and will be holding open trials starting from Monday 9th July at Stockport College. The club is looking to combine a thriving junior section with experienced signings.

 

The club believe that the appointment of Swaine shows a clear statement of intent for the forthcoming season. John Brady, Spartans Director of Basketball says "Adding Jason to our coaching roster takes the club to the next level of development. He shares our vision of developing the best local talent and giving them an opportunity to play and learn at the highest level in this country," he continues. "We are also looking to sign several experienced players over the next month who set the right example to the younger players. The great thing about Jason is that he has had such a glittering career at the highest level and our younger players can't help but learn from him and follow his example on how to consistently stay at the top of your game."

 

The EBL season starts at the end of September with fixtures being finalised at the moment. All home games will be held at Marple 6th Form College.

 

Players interested in playing for the Spartans should contact John Brady on – 07850 492 679 or via email – john@stockportspartans.co.uk.