Creon Raftopoulos has been appointed as Director of Basketball and the Heat’s head coach for the 2010/2011 season. Creon is no stranger to the Heat, having joined them last season as the Youth Development Manager, which involved coaching at all levels. His wealth of basketball experience, spanning 18 years, includes playing for his country, Zimbabwe, and a very successful period as head coach of the EB Div 1 Tees Valley Mowhawks.

Commenting on his appointment, Alan McClafferty, managing director at the Heat said, “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.  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.”

Creon is also responsible for running Heat Community Foundation initiatives to tackle child obesity and anti-social beahvior such as Dunk the Junk and Hoops for Health.

Creon Raftopoulos commented, “I am very excited about the season ahead.  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.”