Steve Legge is the Director of Operations & Head Coach at Blackpool Junior Basketball, bringing 45 years’ experience as a player, referee, player-coach, team manager and educator to every session.

Now in his 23rd year as an NBC Camps Master Teacher, Steve blends world-class methods with a fun, supportive approach that helps local children build skill and confidence. He has managed at top-flight level with the Manchester Eagles (forerunners of the Manchester Giants), travelling across Europe and learning alongside respected coaches Jeff Jones and Roy Blake.

A Fylde Coast icon known for his three-point shooting (featured in David Shaw’s What Time Is It, Game Time), Steve has also built successful academies at Blackpool Sixth Form College and coached at National League level, including Myerscough Under-18 Women (National League North winners).

Steve Legge – Director of Operations & Head Coach

Steve's Coaching Philosophy

"Basketball taught me resilience, discipline, and leadership. I want every child who walks through our doors to experience those same benefits , while having an absolute blast."

Steve believes:

→ Every child can improve with coaching
→ Fun and fundamentals go hand-in-hand
→ The journey matters more than the destination

Qualifications & Experience

✓ 40 years in basketball (player, coach, referee, team manager)
✓ NBC Camps Master Teacher (23 years)
✓ Former Team Manager, Manchester Eagles (England's top flight)
✓ Founded Basketball Academies at Blackpool Sixth Form College
✓ National League coach (Myerscough Under-18 Women)
✓ Enhanced DBS checked
✓ First-aid trained
✓ Fully insured and safeguarding compliant

Our Coaches

At Blackpool Junior Basketball, we know that great coaching is about more than just drills and tactics. It's about inspiring young people, building their confidence, and creating an environment where they feel safe to learn and grow.

Every member of our coaching team is hand-picked not just for their basketball knowledge, but for their ability to connect with and motivate children. We are proud to have a diverse team of mentors who bring a wealth of experience - from professional playing careers and national league management to primary education and youth development.

Coach Paige

Paige is a dedicated and versatile coach who discovered her passion for basketball at high school before advancing through the Blackpool Sixth Basketball Academy.

A Manchester League player with extensive experience, Paige holds qualifications as a Level 2 Coach, Level 1 Referee, and Level 1 Table Official. With a BA (Hons) in Sport and Physical Education, she combines her court expertise with professional experience as an Active Health Officer in Lancashire Primary schools, helping young players develop both their skills and their love for staying active.

Coach Austin

Chris began his journey with Blackpool Junior Basketball as Austin has been immersed in basketball since age four, bringing a wealth of playing experience to his coaching role.

By age seven he was training with the Manchester Giants at the National Basketball Centre, before going on to play for Manchester Magic and Trafford basketball clubs. His background has taught him the value of teamwork and technical precision, which he now passionately shares with our young players. Austin excels at passing on his knowledge and helping children master the fundamental skills and techniques needed to enjoy the game.

Amelia is an enthusiastic new addition to our coaching staff who is already making a significant impact.

Currently a student at Blackpool Sixth, she is part of the Sports Leadership Centre of Excellence, gaining valuable experience working with young people across the local community. Amelia also coaches with the Blackpool FC Community Trust and is constantly seeking to refine her skills. This summer, she will be heading to Camp America to further develop her coaching expertise and bring new ideas back to our sessions.

Coach Amelia

Coach Rachel

Rachel serves as our Chief of Administration and Designated Safeguarding Lead, playing a crucial role in ensuring our sessions run smoothly and safely.

A former point guard with impressive playing credentials, she has competed in numerous British College Finals Competitions, bringing both organizational expertise and on-court understanding to the team. Rachel manages our session logistics with fantastic efficiency while ensuring the highest standards of player welfare are maintained at all times.