Tag: Peter Paraskeva

Manchester Magic and Mystics News

Paraskeva takes on Director of Basketball role

Peter Paraskeva has been appointed as the new Director of Basketball for the Manchester Magic and Manchester Mystics.

The move is designed to ensure both programmes are closely aligned in terms of standards, philosophy and coaching matters.

“I’m really excited at the prospect of tackling this new role,” said Paraskeva, a former Magic junior who earned international honours with England.

“Our club has had an extremely successful season and it’s important we continue to improve on our coaching delivery and nurturing of our young athletes.

“This is all made possible with the amazing group of passionate and dedicated volunteers that make the club what it is.

”The club is continuing its search for a new Head of Mystics.

The successful candidate will have responsibility for the entire girls’ programme, including the WEABL squad.The Magic and Mystics have enjoyed a great deal of success in 2021/22.

After winning the NBL U18 Men’s National Cup in February, they went on to qualify five teams for the NBL Junior Final Fours at the end of April.All five made their respective finals, with the U14 Mystics, the U16 Mystics and the U16 Magic all emerging as national champions.

To add to this success, Magic’s senior team won promotion to NBL Division One and claimed victory in the NBL Division Two Playoff Final at Belle Vue.

The Mystics senior team also enjoyed a season to remember, reaching the NBL Division Two Playoff Final in their first season back.

A significant number of juniors have also earned international honours with England and Wales, at U14, U15, U16 and U18 level.

A number of former Magic and Mystics juniors have also won silverware in the BBL and WBBL.

Andre Gayle returns 2019-20

Guard Gayle re-signs for Magic

Manchester Magic have re-signed 6ft 4in guard Andre Gayle for the upcoming NBL Division 2 North campaign.

The 24-year-old local has become new head coach Pete Paraskeva’s second key signing following last season’s relegation.

“Andre came through our junior system and understands our focus on development,” said Paraskeva.

“He was fantastic last season and led by example. I’m really happy to keep him with us.”

Gayle’s record last season was impressive in 2018/19 despite the team’s demotion, averaging 10.9 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game.

“I’m just happy to be back,” said Gayle, who joins 6ft 10in forward Richard Bell on the Magic squad for the 2019/20 season.

Pete Paraskeva Manchester Magic Head Coach 2019-20

Paraskeva to coach Magic’s senior men in 2019/20

Pete Paraskeva will coach Manchester Magic’s senior men’s team in 2019/20.

The 32-year-old steps into the job as Magic prepare for life in NBL Division 2 North following their relegation last season.

A former junior player with the Magic who knows the club inside and out, Pete will combine his new post with his role as head coach with Magic’s EABL and U18 NBL teams.

‘We have a fantastic group of talented young players and I am really looking forward to seeing them compete in Division 2 this season,” said Paraskeva.

“The older heads we have brought in will provide a maturity and experience to guide our juniors as they transition to the senior level.”

“It’s a new era for Magic’s senior team with Pete at the helm and I’m very excited about what lies ahead,” said club chief executive Phil Gordos.

Simon Fisher took charge of Magic midway through their D1 campaign.

Despite his best efforts, the team finished bottom of the table following a challenging season that began with Aurimas Verbukas at the helm.

“I want to place on record my huge thanks to Simon for the work he did last season,” added Gordos.

“He faced a number of challenges and met them head on like I knew he would.

“His professionalism and enthusiasm rubbed off on others and I’m sure we will continue to feel his impact over the coming years.

“I would also like to thank the players, coaches, physiotherapy team and volunteers who all gave their best during the 2018/19 season.”