New Irish Senior Men’s head coach Pete Strickland has today announced his first two appointments to his backroom team, unveiling his first Assistant Coach and the Team Manager for the squad.
Ioannis Liapakis has been appointed as Assistant Coach for the squad and brings with him a wealth of experience in coaching over the last number of years. Currently coaching UCD Marian’s Super League men’s team, Ioannis has also had huge success courtside outside of Ireland, and Pete was delighted to announce the appointment today.
Strickland – who was in Ireland the last 10 days observing the Super Series weekend at the Arena and the Hula Hoops National Cup finals – had a talented pool to pick from for both roles, and is excited to work with Ioannis in the coming months.
“Ioannis is one of the most respected coaches in the Irish game today,” Strickland noted. “He will be an invaluable addition to the Irish Senior Men’s staff as his court acumen, people skills and international overview is a combination that will prepare our players for a high level of competition immediately. I am thrilled to be working with such a respected and capable basketball teacher and coach.”
Also speaking about the news, Liapakis added: “It’s a great honour to be part of the men’s national team setup and to work alongside legendary coach, Pete Strickland. It’s a big responsibility to represent Ireland and we will definitely work our hardest to do our best and deliver. I would like to thank Coach Strickland and Basketball Ireland for giving me the opportunity to be part of the team – I’m really looking forward to it.”
Meanwhile, Galway’s Tom O’Malley has secured the position of Team Manager for the squad – another appointment that Strickland is very excited about.
“As an internationally experienced coach himself, Tom brings with him a wealth of knowledge to this role,” said Strickland. “This knowledge will translate invaluably to the organizational and administrative sides of the game – aspects that can directly impact a team’s success. I am honored Tom will be joining our staff.”
O’Malley added: “I think this is the start of a new and exciting chapter in Irish basketball. I am delighted to be part of Coach Strickland’s management team and I’m really looking forward to it.”
With thanks to Basketball Ireland.
