Guildford Heat name Creon Raftopoulos as new head coach

Guildford Heat have appointed Creon Raftopoulos as their new head coach and Director of Basketball.

The former Zimbabwean international, who joined the club last season as the Youth Development Manager, has former coaching experience in charge of EBL Division Two side, Tees Valley Mohawks.

He replaces Chad McKnight, who was sacked as player-coach after the worst season in the Heat's brief history.

“I am very excited about the season ahead," said Raftopoulos. "I share the board’s vision to build the Heat from the grassroots level right up to the BBL. I am passionate about the sport and passionate about helping players of all levels to reach their full potential.

“My immediate goal for the BBL team is to make the play offs and I am currently recruiting some exciting players who will be announced soon. In the longer-term, I want Guildford Heat to once again, be one of the most successful teams in the British Basketball League.”

Raftopoulos will take charge of the Heat's off-court outreach work at their new campus-based home.

“Our move to Surrey Sports Park next season marks an exciting new phase for the Heat, giving us the opportunity for our junior national league teams and men’s senior team to train and play in a single venue,: said Alan McClafferty, managing director at the Heat.

"As head coach and director of basketball this will help Creon, who will be responsible for the quality of coaching we deliver at all levels from the BBL team to the under 10’s.”

“We had a number of excellent coaches to consider for the role but Creon’s appointment was a unanimous decision by the board. He has already proved himself to us with his impressive coaching skills, committment to the club and the respect he receives from players, coaches and parents alike. We are looking forward to working with him in his larger role.”

.