PAUL Blake is a busy man. But hasn’t it always been thus? For the past decade the Northumbria University graduate has been a key figure behind the scenes at one of Britain’s sporting success stories. Latterly he has been the driving force behind getting the British Basketball League on track as its proactive and ambitious chairman. And in both his role as Newcastle owner and league chief, Blake has forged a reputation as a no-nonsense businessman with a clear and confident vision. But 2008 could mark a change in direction for a passionate individual tiring of two arduous roles. And this afternoon’s BBL Trophy final – between the Eagles and Milton Keynes Lions – could be Blake’s last as BBL boss. “I’m happy to retain the role of chairman at this point but I don’t see myself in this position in the long term,” he told Eagle Eye in an exclusive interview. “It’s something to look at in the close season. “At some point along the way we need to appoint an independent chairman. “But an independent chairman coming in is like a new franchise coming in – he or she doesn’t know what they’re letting themselves in for until they tackle the job. “We need the right person and someone who understands all of the issues we deal with. “There are not that many people who would want to take the role on.” Blake was hardly an enthusiastic candidate when he took over the reins from previous BBL boss Vince Macaulay less than three years ago. But with no obvious alternatives, Newcastle’s owner took the bull by the horns and set about rebranding and remodeling the BBL as a credible European partner. Now recogniSed by Euroleague and its sister organization ULEB, British basketball is back on the continental map. And Europe is just one of the many reasons behind Blake’s decision to review his dual role. “It is still the plan to take the Eagles into Europe in the near future but it’s a massive undertaking and would require a great deal of time and effort,” he added. “I am pleased with the way the BBL is progressing with new clubs entering the league and grasping the nettle straight away. “But I don’t find it any easier juggling my duties as league chairman with those as Eagles owner. “And there will come a time when one job becomes more important than the other.” As Newcastle bid to start 2008 the way they finished 2007 – with a piece of domestic silverware – Blake has every reason to feel satisfied with his work on both fronts. The Eagles have bagged seven trophies in six years since he made the bold decision to appoint player-coach Fabulous Flournoy as Tony Garbelotto’s successor. And Newcastle now attract average crowds close to 3000 every week in a competitive sporting marketplace offering top flight football, rugby and ice hockey. This afternoon’s 2008 BBL Cup final will be watched by a four-figure crowd at Birmingham’s National Indoor Arena. And Macaulay’s Milton Keynes are proof that the British game is making giant strides nationwide as a previously unfashionable franchise look to clinch a first piece of silverware prior to their move to a new state-of-the-art home. “Events like the Cup final are an opportunity to show a wider audience what we’re all about,” added Blake. “And as chairman of the league and owner of one of the finalists I suppose you could say I’m in a no-lose situation. But I’d like to see the Eagles win!”
Catch full commentary of this afternoon’s clash on BBC Radio Newcastle with Martin Emmerson and hoops expert Katie Gornall.
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