Manchester Mystics have appointed Aurimas Verbukas as its new Director of Girls’ Coaching.

Aurimas, aka Coach Ollie, has been part of the coaching team at the Amaechi Basketball Centre since 2014, when he joined us from London club Newham All Stars Sports Academy.

In that time, the 32-year-old Lithuanian has played a key role in the club’s success, guiding a number of teams to national titles as well as helping develop many talented players.

“I am excited and thankful for the opportunity to lead the Mystics junior programme,” said Aurimas, who starts his role immediately. “I look forward to working with the club to continue our success.”

Joe Forber, co-founder of the Manchester Mystics, said: “Ollie has worked terrifically hard since he came to the club, showing a real dedication to the improvement of the boys and girls within our programme.

“He fully deserves this promotion and we look forward to substantially improving the girls’ programme in the next few years.’

Aurimas will also head the girls’ programme at Loreto College, overseeing its participation in the Women’s Elite Academy Basketball League.