The Sheffield Sharks basketball team today confirmed their franchise player Atiba Lyons as the new Head Coach for the 2008 - 2009 season. 

The position was confirmed by the Sharks Board following much consideration and a recent campaign fraught with disappointment. Comparing, the relative lack of success by the Sharks to clubs such as Newcastle Eagles and Scottish Rocks, the board agreed that a player coach from within the ranks, was the way forward.  

Lyons, who agreed terms in the off season agreed to take on the role of the Sharks first ever player coach with immediate effect. "We are delighted that Atiba agreed to take on this position, there is no doubt that it is a difficult task, however, this season he demonstrated an ability that gives us absolute confidence in meeting the challenge" stated Chairman Yuri Matischen. " Obviously, Atiba has much to learn, but in the same way as we appointed Chris Finch, at a young age we have seen similar qualities and a determination to succeed" added Matischen.  

The role for Lyons will see him continue to make an important contribution on court as well as adopting the Head Coach duties off court.  

" This is definitely going to be a challenging season, but I felt that when this opportunity was offered to me I couldn’t afford to turn it down, " said Lyons. " I really feel honoured that the Sharks have given me their confidence and I will bring my energy and ideas to ensure we build on our close season performance."

 Lyons has now returned to the States, where upon he has embarked on his own recruitment campaign. 

"Obviously I will be looking for some continuity from the current squad," said Lyons. " But there were definitely weaknesses this season and improving on them is the current focus."  

In addition to the new coach, the Sharks are in discussions with candidates to support Lyons in the assistant position. 

The Sharks perform a major role within the community as well as on court and Atiba will need a range of support and someone with pedigree to help him in his endeavours," stated Matischen. "We are now in discussions with several appropriate candidates and we hope to secure someone in the not too distant future. I look forward to everyone getting behind the new coach if we are to make a successful return to the top".

 For further info: please contact 01142 571994