Robbie Peers returns as Cheshire Phoenix Technical Director
It is news that Cheshire Phoenix supporters have been teased with, and after months of speculation they today have announced, in the role of Technical Director of Basketball, the return of one of the greatest Head Coaches in BBL history – Robbie Peers.
He will team up with the already installed Head Coach, John Lavery, and Assistant Coach, Mike Burton, whom Peers himself was assisted by during the franchise’s “Jetwash” clean sweep 11 years ago.
The role which Peers will undertake will see him provide scouting and recruitment support, whilst also being on hand to lend his experience to Lavery if needed.
“It is great to be back,” said Peers of his return, “The club is in my blood. I have remained a fan since I left, attending games when I could.
“But to be able to return and help this great club and these great fans rebuild and make Cheshire a stronghold for basketball once more is very exciting.
“John is a great coach but you cannot run a club on your own. You need people around you that can be called upon when needed. I had Mike Burton and now John has Mike and me.”
Peers saw the franchise, under a different name, being crowned BBL Champions as well as leading them to the BBL Championship Playoff title, BBL Cup and BBL Trophy in 2002.
Head Coach Lavery has welcomed the appointment, and highlighted the value Peers adds, alongside that of Burton’s appointment as Assistant, in order to bring silverware back to the Chester area.
“Having coached this franchise before, I know that there are plenty of difficulties and challenges throughout the season,” he said.
“It is vital to have people you can bounce ideas off and whose experience you can draw on. I don’t think there are many coaches who can draw on the knowledge I have around me now with Robbie and Mike.”