West Gate School, a special school for pupils aged from 4 to 19-years-old, has been using SAQ® techniques since 2003, when the school was known as Piper Way School. It is currently the only school in Leicester to have a member of staff dedicated to delivering the practises of SAQ®.

SAQ® Instructor Mandy Ricketts, who is fully-trained to deliver the SAQ® program, is based at the school and works within the Learning Enrichment Team. The pupils have extremely wide-ranging physical and learning disabilities, including autism, epilepsy and Down’s syndrome, but each child is assessed individually and given their own unique SAQ® program.

At the core of SAQ® Training is a series of drills and specific exercises that develop the body’s core muscle groups and the neuro-muscular pathways that control athletic movement. These principles are adapted to each child and the school has seen some fantastic results.

Each pupil is observed with various elements being assessed, such as posture, head position, balance, joint movement, multi-directional movement and coordination.

Targets are set and a yearly term plan is devised, containing key learning objectives to accompany a weekly plan. Each child has at least one 30 minute, individually tailored one on one session a week.

The SAQ® sessions also have cross-curricular links, when elements from other subjects are considered and added to the exercises, such as counting for Maths and understanding different parts of the body for Science. Training has also been given to parents who have learned SAQ® techniques to continue the good work being done at home.

Mandy Ricketts, described how the SAQ® principles are making a big difference at the school.

“A lot of it is trial and error but all of the kids enjoy the sessions and so do I. Every child is different and it’s fantastic to see all of them progressing. The sessions really do work and we are seeing benefits in all-round behaviour and each child’s overall performance in school. They are more focused in lessons and we’ve seen some amazing improvements in their handwriting.

“As well as training the parents in some of the SAQ® principles, we’ve also held after school sessions for the children, where they’ve been able to experience using some of the SAQ® equipment utilised by elite sportspeople, such as the Sonic Chute.”

Jan Hesketh, Associate Head Teacher, also gave her endorsement.

“SAQ® has been vital to our pupils and we’ve seen a major improvement in their behaviour and focus in lessons, as well as in their movement, balance and coordination. It also boosts their confidence, meaning they have more input in lessons, and it’s certainly aiding their ability to learn. The evidence shows significant progress with consistent results for all of the children.

“After initially having less regular sessions, with Mandy visiting the school to spend time with the children, we soon realised how much of an effect SAQ® was having, and that’s why we committed to funding Mandy’s role as a full-time post at the school.”

For more information about SAQ® International visit their website www.saqinternational.com

Both Lizzie and Caitlin will be making a splash in London’s Aquatic Centre during this summer’s Olympic Games, as Lizzie takes part in the 200 metres backstroke and Caitlin competes in the 4×200 metre relay, and the Loughborough based-pair were keen to pass on their advice to pupils at Mellor Primary School on Wednesday (May 16th).

The Wells Sports Foundation was set up by successful businessman and sports philanthropist, Barrie Wells, and supports 18 of the UK’s most talented sports people, including Team GB World Champions, heptathlete Jessica Ennis (pictured above, with Barrie) and 400 metre hurdler Dai Greene.

The Athletes 4 Schools Scheme, which has reached over 8,000 young people across Leicester and Leicestershire, aims to ensure that the UK has a sporting legacy that reaches beyond London 2012.

Yesterday’s event, which was organised in conjunction with Inspire LeicesterShire, fittingly took place on UK Inspire Day, which marked the start of celebrations for over 2,700 nationwide projects, inspired by the London 2012 Games, to do something special in their local communities.

Barrie Wells also joined Lizzie and Caitlin at Mellor Primary as the swimmers talked about the Olympic and Paralympic values, the importance of a healthy diet and how their preparations are going for the Games, before supervising some practical activities, including reaction tests, with the children.

Speaking at the school, Barrie explained what inspired him to set up the Foundation.

“I was at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing watching the athletics with my son and I wanted to create something to help sports people with potential to compete in 2012. But I also wanted the athletes to visit schools, to help both the elite and grassroots levels. I picked about 18 athletes and have committed to sponsoring them right through until 2012.

“I give them up to about £9,000 to help, following an interview where they explain what they would spend the money on. With Jessica Ennis it was for her physio, for Dai Greene it was to help him relocate to Bath for training and with Lizzie it is for education, but every single one of them wants something different.

“They have to be good role models to go into the schools and relate to the kids and I need to like them as well, there needs to be a bit of chemistry between me and them. Out of our 18 athletes probably 14 of them will go to the Olympics and maybe six of them can win medals and I’ll be there at every event.”

Barrie was also very proud to oversee the landmark Athletes 4 Schools visit in Leicestershire.

“This is incredible as it’s the 50th visit and Inspire LeicesterShire have done so well to provide the link for us in Leicestershire. It’s been really successful in the East Midlands and the North West. Leicestershire’s got a great sporting tradition and five of our athletes are based at Loughborough.”

Commonwealth Silver Medallist and World Champion, Caitlin McClatchey (above) outlined the help she’s received from the Wells Sports Foundation.

“It’s allowed me to go to various training camps abroad, which has been really helpful. I’ve had access to things that I normally wouldn’t do, such as nutritional supplements, which has been really important for me because I get ill quite often, so that support is something that I think I really couldn’t do without.

“I feel really lucky to be part of something like this, telling kids that might not usually be involved in sport that they can bring the Olympic and Paralympic values to all parts of life. It’s a really important message that we try and deliver to the kids and the Wells Sports Foundation is something that I’m really proud to be involved with.”

And European Champion, Lizzie (left), spoke in equally glowing terms about the Scheme, the Foundation and Barrie.

“Barrie is a little bit different to the arrangement I have with other sponsors. He likes having a personal relationship and comes along to events like this. He knows my parents really well and he came out to Budapest to support me during the European Championships. He sat with my parents and they went out for dinner afterwards and I think he know them better than he knows me! It’s a really fantastic thing to have and makes this agreement special.

“I’m very proud to be an ambassador for the Foundation and it’s a fantastic cause. You visit schools and see the kids getting so excited about us being here. We’re not here to tell people they should be Olympic swimmers, we’re here to inspire a little bit of belief and faith in children that they can make something of their lives. They see us on the TV in our sports personas, but it doesn’t quite seem real to them. When you come into schools the children are able to relate to you. Today a boy came up to me and poked me on the arm and said ‘I’m just making sure that you and Caitlin are not holograms!’

“The financial side of things has been helpful and we get paid for appearances like these, but that makes it a good relationship because you feel that you’ve done something worthwhile for your money. If just one child that didn’t have the belief before is inspired now, then it’s been worthwhile.”

Dan Mitchinson, 2012 Games Legacy Coordinator for Leicester and Leicestershire, has relished the opportunity to link-up with the Foundation.

“Our partnership with the Wells Sports Foundation has been a really important part of our legacy work for children and young people. These visits bring the Games just that little bit closer to our young people, as they follow the athletes on their Olympic journey in 2012 and beyond.”

To find out more about the Wells Sports Foundation or the Athletes 4 School scheme, visit www.wellssportsfoundation.org

Plans are picking up pace for the city’s third Summer Food and Drink Festival on Sunday 27th May at Leicester’s famous market.

It is expected over 200 local producers, market traders and restaurant chefs will be descending on Leicester’s outdoor market for culinary cook-offs and sizzling food stalls next month.

In addition, there will be live entertainment and face painting for children.

Joe Harkin, festival organiser, commented:

“We see this festival as a reflection and celebration of the city of Leicester and the surrounding region. The crowds we have welcomed in the past have been vast and there is still time to get involved. We would particularly like to hear from some of our city centre restaurants and some new cuisines from the Polish and Somalian communities.”

In addition to a wide choice of local and international food, there will be a range of real ales to sample and buy, including Everards‘ new Diamond Jubilee Ale.

To pick up a free sample of Everards’ new celebratory ale, pick up a festival flyer from the Market’s customer care centre, behind Bocca Cafe in the market, or the Tourist Information Centre, in Town Hall Square, and hand over on festival day!

In addition to Everards, the fully licensed Drink Zone, will include representatives from Langton Brewery and The Bottle Kicking Cider Company.

There will also be live cooking demonstrations from…

- Entropy

- The Almanack

- The Food Enterprise Workshop

The Summer Food and Drink Festival will be FREE to attend and run from 11:00am until 5:00pm.

Anybody interested in setting up a stall, or appearing at the event should telephone Joe Harkin on 0116 223 2371 or e-mail joseph.harkin@leicester.gov.uk

For further information about all markets events follow Leicester Market on Twitter – @LE1Market, or take a look at us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LeicesterMarkets  

Eco-driven activities are being encouraged more and more in Britain so there are even more routes and cycle-friendly areas to explore; charity rides, cross-country challenges or just the local nature reserve.

Cycling for commuters has enjoyed a revival in recent years because of rising fuel prices and is now very much at the forefront of political debate. The upcoming Big Ride, a citywide event ahead of the London mayoral elections, is promoting cycle routes based on the Dutch system. Separate lanes for cyclists would reduce the risks and invite more people to use cycling to get from A to B and to get fit in the process.

This season’s outdoor festivals are also encouraging transport by bikes; Womad and The Green Man are offering cheap lock-up facilities and Bestival and Latitude are organising several starting points from which cyclists can ride together the whole way there.

Planning a route and finding the perfect destination for the weekend can be a challenge in itself. It can help to check out a social cycling group. Sky Ride, in association with British Cycling, are continuing to plug community cycling and it’s a good place to find a local group or the next organised free ride which saves the hassle of designing routes.

For more seasoned recreational cyclists, cycling holidays present an ideal, low-cost break. National parks like the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District can be even more satisfying when viewing from a bike seat at the top of a recently-conquered hill. Those with families might try more central areas such as Berkshire and Oxfordshire which have plenty of inspiring routes and a less difficult terrain.

The UK still offers serious challenges for mountain bikers. Tours across the Highlands of Scotland take in unparalleled scenery and winding trails through the glens and munros. Charity rides like the Rob Roy Challenge see cyclists tackling a 39-mile cycle and 16-mile run across the famous Rob Roy Way near Loch Lomond. There are dates throughout the season to join a tour from east coast to west or around the dramatic landscape of the Hebrides.

More moderate rides can be found around the Peak District in Derbyshire, like the Hope to Hope route which circles past the best of the county including the grand Chatsworth estate. You don’t even need to own a bike to try the rugged climbs of North Wales; it’s possible to hire from Dysinni Valley and enjoy the outstanding view across Snowdonia.

The ‘stay-cation’ is still a popular choice for those on a budget, and with a bicycle in tow it’s possible to see the highlights of the home-grown landscape from up close. Cycling today is not only wise in terms of health but can bring a sense of personal achievement that makes a commute, a weekend or a fortnight away feel worthwhile.

It is the first time in its history that LASS has sought the support of a patron and the acceptance of this position by Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu reflects the extensive variety of challenges that working in HIV presents.

Jenny Hand, CEO of LASS, explained: “For LASS to be supported and valued by a man of such international stature is incredible. The Archbishop’s untiring work in human rights, particularly in Southern Africa, and in the field of HIV/AIDS, together with his extraordinary ability to reach across communities, inspired LASS to approach him. His patronage reflects the diverse range of communities LASS works with and gives us a new sense of purpose and energy.

“We could not have asked for a better way to mark the launch of our 25th Anniversary Year and embolden our service users, staff and volunteers as we face the challenges that lie ahead.”

In approaching Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu LASS described the charity’s journey, from starting as a struggling telephone help-line in June 1987 for people affected by HIV and AIDS, to becoming Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland’s leading cross-community HIV charity today, currently supporting over 500 people affected by HIV.

Leading the way with its innovative community Rapid HIV Testing initiative, LASS delivers education and training in sexual health in schools and community settings and challenging the stigma and ignorance that is still attached to HIV.

In accepting the invitation Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu explained that, as a retired octogenarian, he had been reducing his commitments. However, he was touched by LASS’s story and has decided to make an exception, agreeing to be the charity’s International Patron.

Patrick Bowe, Chair of the LASS Board of Trustees, said: “This is also a very positive reflection on our home of Leicester, which the Archbishop is already familiar with through the University of Leicester. The extraordinary diversity of the city’s communities, the work done in the city to maintain community harmony and LASS’s commitment to working across faiths and communities were also drawn to the Archbishop’s attention. It is for these reasons also that LASS believes no better figure could have been welcomed as our International Patron than Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu.”

LASS will be launching its 25th Anniversary Year with an Anniversary Boat Race in Humberstone Gate, Leicester City Centre, on 9 June.

This event will reflect the fact that in 25 years the reality of HIV in the UK has changed enormously and it is possible, with early diagnosis, to live a long, healthy and active life with HIV. It will be the first in a number of initiatives throughout the coming year. The Anniversary Boat Race will also reflect the fact that HIV affects everyone, no matter which community or world continent they are from, and is something to address rather than shy away from.

For more information on LASS visit www.lass.org.uk

The pair were unveiled as Leicester City players on Tuesday afternoon (15th May), with both players signing three-year deals with the Foxes for undisclosed fees.

“Ritchie and Matthew are both players we have been monitoring for some time and we are very pleased to be able to bring them both to the club,” said Pearson.

“Both are hungry, young players with winning mentalities, experience of Championship football and a desire to be successful. They will add considerable quality to the squad.”

Belgian-born De Laet will provide the Foxes with a great deal of defensive versatility, whilst the 23-year-old also boasts impressive experience for a player so young, having represented his country at full international level.

De Laet made six appearances for the first team at Old Trafford, whom he joined from Stoke City in 2009, and has enjoyed considerable success on loan with Championship clubs, turning out in the second tier for Sheffield United, Portsmouth and Preston North End. The defender spent the first-half of last season on loan with Norwich City, playing six games for the Canaries in the Premier League.

Midfielder James is a product of the Manchester United academy, having been with the Premier League giants since 2007. The 20-year-old is a gifted midfielder with superb ability on the ball, and can also be deployed in various positions across the middle of the park.

An England Under-20 international, James spent two spells with Preston North End in which he impressed over the course of 32 appearances for the Deepdale outfit, in which he scored three goals.

Meanwhile, Leicester City have also announced that season ticket sales are up by 35% compared to at the same point last summer.

“The early rate of sales has been fantastic and further evidence of the loyalty and commitment consistently displayed by the Leicester City supporters,” commented City Chief Executive, Susan Whelan.

For more information on Leicester City Football Club, visit www.lcfc.com

Since my gig in Leicester last December, it’s really been a case of ‘all change’ for me. I have new management and a new record label. Unfortunately, that has resulted in the recording of my second album being put back a couple of months. I was initially recording in Wales, but now I will be recording the album in London – so at the moment, I am literally driving between there and Leicester.

That’s just the start of ‘new’ things coming your way. At the moment, I’m in the process of recording my new single. With the promotion that will come with it, it’s a case of rehearsing as much as I can to ensure that every time I perform it sounds the way that it’s meant to. Watch this space, as I’m sure details of the new single will be released soon.

I’ve been happy about the fact that the recording of my album has been delayed. It’s really given me the time to go over my new material and add a bit of depth to some of the songs. I was really proud of some of my new stuff, but now that I have had chance to develop the songs further, I’m buzzing. The sound is exactly the same as I wanted. Dirty guitar riffs are a must, in addition to the big melodies and epic sound – that’s all important to me, so the development of the songs hasn’t affected that.

In terms of other artists, there is some fantastic music being produced at the moment.

I’ve been listening to a lot of Richard Hawley’s stuff. A lot of people remember Richard from his time with Pulp, but his own stuff is just incredible. The music is produced in a simple style, but it’s done to create an epic sound, which is amazing. Added to that his voice, which is quite delicate – and its magic; if you haven’t listened to it yet, make sure that you do.

I’ve also been listening to Ren Harvieu. If you like your music to really affect you, listen to some of her stuff, because for me, it’s just perfection. It got me right from the word ‘go’ and her music just takes you somewhere else.

In terms of bands, I have been listening to The Black Keys. These guys are getting a lot of radio airplay which is fantastic, because not only are they a talented band, their music is just fantastic. New music, with a lot of sounds similar to that of some old-school bands; I’m a big fan.

I do try and get out in Leicester to listen to new bands, but with me being between Leicester and London at the moment – time to get out has been slim. I’ve heard it said before, but I definitely need to get out more!

One band that I have had chance to listen to in Leicester are ‘By The Rivers’. These guys produce some fantastic reggae stuff and they are a really good young band. If you haven’t checked them out, they are well worth looking out for.

If you can suggest any other bands or artists that are worth taking a look at in Leicester, drop a comment below and I will definitely take a look into it!

I have quite a few shows lined up and I am really excited about playing some of the new stuff that has changed since people last heard it.

On 3rd June, I have been invited by Michael Eavis – who had orchestrated Glastonbury since 1970 – to play at their forthcoming Diamond Jubilee gig. To even be asked to perform is a great honour and I can’t wait to play on an amazing stage.

I’m also headlining Fristock, the music festival held in Frisby, before going on to perform on the main stage at Summer Sundae, which is taking place on the weekend of 17th-18th and 19th August. I’m performing on the Sunday, playing alongside some brilliant acts.

It’s been a whirlwind few months, but it’s something that a lot of musicians go through. The key is how you come out of these changes and I’m excited at the fact that I, along with the great guys that I have with me in my band, are getting together and playing some music.

That’s what it’s all about – and all that matters and to be doing it again means that the future is really exciting.

Thanks for reading. Until next month…

For four weeks in July, 58 ping-pong tables will pop up in unexpected locations across Leicester, including St Margaret’s Bus Station, Highcross Shopping Centre, health centres and hospitals, city parks and a local temple.

All tables will be marked ‘Stop and Play’, with bats and balls in ample supply, so anyone that wants to try a game of ping-pong can have a go.

The month-long Ping festival will launch on Saturday June 30th, with a day of ping-pong related fun and games, including exhibition matches, fun challenges and a fancy dress competition for children.

Councillor Piarra Singh Clair, Assistant City Mayor responsible for sport and leisure, said: “It is wonderful that Leicester has been chosen to host Ping 2012. Table tennis is a great sport for all ages and Ping will be a huge hit with people looking for a fun way to get active this summer.”

Leicester is one of just eight cities selected to host Ping 2012, which has been organised by Sing London in partnership with the English Table Tennis Association.

Sing London‘s director, Collette Hiller, said: “When we delivered Ping! London in 2012 we put out 4,000 bats and just 50 went missing. It seems that fun really does bring out the best in people.”

A programme of Ping events will run throughout the four-week festival, offering coaching, competitions, picnics and other fun ways to encourage people to have a go at table tennis.

All 58 ping-pong tables will stay in the city after Ping 2012. A number of the tables will be installed in city parks on a permanent basis, with the majority being given to local community centres.

Mike Smith, development officer at the Leicester and District Table Tennis League, said: “Bringing Ping to Leicester will be an incredible opportunity for people to have a go at table tennis and enjoy this great sport during the Olympic summer. I think this is a brilliant idea.”

Details of all Ping Leicester locations are being finalised and will be publicised in June.

Ping receives funding from Sport England’s Innovation Fund, which aims to help get one million more people playing sport as part of the supporting legacy of the 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games.

Until recently, Sam Ruddock played rugby and American Football for the Aces at Loughborough, however after being spotted playing by sprinting coach Joe McDonnell; Sam’s attentions have been turned from the field to the track.

Despite suffering from cerebral palsy, Sam has become a respected track athlete in an incredibly short space of time. In just over two months, Sam has gone from playing American Football and rugby for recreation, to becoming a recognised T35 athlete and it well on course to attend the forthcoming London Paralympic Games.

“I was incredibly fortunate to be spotted by Joe (McDonnell), who noticed my attitude and commitment instantly,” explains Sam.

“He suggested ‘classification’ for disability athletics, in light of my speed that was unusual for someone with cerebral palsy. After I realised that I had essentially been ‘talent scouted’ and with the Paralympic Games approaching in eight months time, I acknowledged that I had a chance to genuinely compete against others with similar disabilities.

“I accepted Joe’s offer and in March and UK Athletics arranged for me to attend a Parallel Success Talent Day in Manchester.”

Sam’s condition has impacted his ability to play sport, however it has little impact in his ambition to participate. Medically diagnosed as spastic diplegia in the lower extremities, including legs and hips; the condition has an effect on Sam’s balance, coordination and flexibility.

“This condition is one that I have had to learn to deal with,” admits the sprinter.

“I distinctly remember my first day on Bigside Two (American Football). Our captain explained that as soon as the opposition players saw the way I ran and walk, they would come after me. I instantly replied to him: ‘I don’t care bring them on’.”

At the Parallel Success Talent Day, Sam impressed coaches in attendance with his work ethic, believing that he was a rarity. In their midst was a young adult with cerebral palsy that had been playing sport over five years on a regular basis.

“The head coordinators of the Paralympic performance and talent decided that I was a talent that could be developed, so I was sent to the 2012 IPC Croatian Open in Zagreb,” says Sam.

“This allowed me to be ‘classified’ by an International Paralympic Committee classification panel and, as a result, give me an official world ranking and eligibly to be selected by Great Britain’s Paralympic Team.”

There are different classes for all disabled competitors. Sam’s T35 classification, broken down by track, condition and severity level, is one of the ambulant classes.

Athletes in the same classification race against each other, so as to ensure that competitors with varying levels of a condition aren’t racing against athletes of a more significant imparity.

Since turning his attention to track and his subsequent classification, Sam has shown incredible promise.

“My first races at Loughborough’s Paula Radcliffe Stadium in April went extremely well,” admits Sam.

“Especially considering my nerves, which at one point nearly prompted a false start. However my time of 14.26 for the 100m and 29.54 for the 200m were both a second behind the GB Paralympic Standard and my 200m time went to the top of the ‘UK All-Time’ T35 rankings.

“Having only had a month of sprint training, it was an impressive feat.”

It’s a modest assessment from Sam, who went one better when he competed in the later Croatian Open.

“I was up against two Russians with top-ten world rankings,” he explains further.

“I ran a personal best of 14.02 to take home the T35 100m Gold in a photo-finish race, later winning Silver in the T35 200m race with another personal best of 28.77.”

All of this incredible athlete’s focus now turns to this summer’s Paralympic Games, with Sam needing to meet the qualification times needed to be selected for the 2012 Games.

It’s an amazing journey for a young man whose passion for sport runs deep – an exemplary tale of how, with the right attitude and level of commitment and effort, anything is possible.

For more information on Sam, contact Ryan McNamara at ryan@5or6.co.uk or 01509 768 087.

Over 1,000 Riders fans created a sea of red inside the venue; however the classy Eagles completed their clean sweep of BBL titles this year following a strong end to the second quarter that Leicester, despite their best attempts, were unable to recover from.

Riders dominated proceedings early on, ending the first quarter with a nine-point lead themselves, however a strong second-half of the second quarter allowed Newcastle Eagles to get back on level terms, with both teams going into the break at 31 points.

Cameron Rundles, talismanic for Leicester Riders in the team’s four play-off games leading to the season’s climatic showpiece, found himself in foul trouble just minutes inside the third quarter and was forced to play a bit-part role for the rest of the game as he struggled to make an impact on proceedings, with Newcastle player/coach Fab Flournoy strong defensively.

Great Britain captain Drew Sullivan signed off ahead of the 2012 Olympic Games with a game-high 18 points for Leicester Riders, who were left to rue opportunities missed from the free throw line. The side made just six of 20 from the line during the course of the encounter – a stat which speaks volumes in a game separated by nine points.

Despite the bitter disappointment, the Riders – made up of a team playing together for the first season against a Newcastle Eagles united for many years – bowed out of the season to a sensational ovation from fans in attendance, with Leicester head coach Rob Paternostro bursting with pride for a team he describes as a ‘fantastic’ group.

“The game was exactly the type of game that I thought it would be,” admitted the charismatic Riders play-caller.

“Because that both teams play so well defensively, I knew that it would be a low-scoring game. Both teams also knew each other very well, but that’s what you get in these kinds of games. They made 12 free throws, whilst we made six and for me, that was a big part of the game. We were 6 for 20 from the foul line in the game and 0 for 10 in the second-half, so we weren’t able to stay close where as if we had made our free throws, we would have.

“Give Newcastle Eagles credit,” continued Paternostro.

“They have been together and have won these games together (in the past) and I think that when you’re in a dog-fight at the end as we were, a team with that kind of experience wins out.”

The defeat brings to an end a historic season for Leicester Riders. The team achieved their highest-ever league finish, coming second to final nemesis Newcastle; whilst also winning a best-ever 22 games and thus achieving the team’s highest-ever win percentage.

“A team with three rookies in the starting line-up; I don’t think a team with that level of experience has ever finished as high as we have this year,” admits the Connecticut-born coach.

“It’s a credit to our guys to see how we have competed and the way that we have adapted. There have been a lot of things in the league this year; we’ve had to play more road games than home games in the league, but it’s been a great season.

“I said to the guys before the game that I was so proud of the wins and all that, but I am more proud of the relationships that we have built up. I’ll never forget this group of guys. They have been fantastic.”

The nature of professional basketball in England brings a degree of uncertainty over which players will remain in a Leicester Riders uniform next season. Rob Paternostro – a man that has successfully rebuilt team after team at the John Sandford Sports Centre – admits that each party will need to sit down to talk during the close season, but that those discussions will follow a well-deserved break.

“I think that we all have to sit down, every one of us, and then find out where we’re at,” he says.

“With this late play-off run, that will be a little delayed. The next step for me is to sit down, find out what’s happening with me, and then find out what’s happening with them (the players) and we’ll go from there.

“First, I think we’re ready for the break. All of us have been competing hard since September and whilst we’ll miss the relationships and the camaraderie, we will enjoy the break.”

Soar Magazine will be keeping tabs on the summer development with Leicester Riders, whilst more information on the Riders can be found at www.soarmagazine.co.uk