Ahead of trials on 22 May, this is as good a time as any to reflect on the club's inaugural NBL season in our very first ever season wrap-up.
Playing under the Manchester Swarm brand, the club had 6 entries in the 2021/22 season; 5 junior and 1 senior. Below we have a quick summary of how each team faired.
Under 12 (Mixed) - 3-3, 3rd place North conference.
The youngest team in the club entered the U12 North-Mixed league. Playing a limited schedule due to withdrawals from the competition from some of the original entrants, the U12s regardless gained a valuable season preparing for life in the NBL under the guidance of head coach Guy Roles, supported by Craig Conroy.
Under 14 - 11-5, 3rd place North West conference.
The Under 14 boys enjoyed a strong season in a competitive North West conference. Featuring a number of NBL newcomers, coach Graham Kelsall's charges took part in some close games, which figures to stand them in good stead as they seek to progress in their national league careers. Tin Pui Fung served well as an assistant for coach Kelsall, as both cut their teeth at this level.
Under 16 - 9-3, 2nd in North West II conference. 2-1 in National Cup, round of 32.
The Under 16 boys had an impressive season under Jason Parr-Hilton as they were the best of the rest in a conference dominated by a strong Manchester Giants team. The season was a key learning experience for both players and coaches - Dirk Vervaet assisting - as they were in contention for league honours and a potential promotion playoff for the majority of the season. They also enjoyed a short cup run, claiming 2 wins before bowing out in the round of 32.
Under 18 Black - 13-7, 4th in North West Conference
One of two teams representing the club in the age group, the Under 18 Black squad comprised the older end of the cohort; a cohort that had last competed in NBL competition in the Under 16 age group. The challenge of playing their final season of junior basketball having missed the whole of the 2020/21 season led to a slow start to the season, but as the schedule progressed, coach Lewis Scott was able to galvanise the team into a competitive unit that would win double digit games. Squad Black would belie their lack of genuine size as they battled all season long against bigger teams. An impressive outing for all involved as they bade farewell to the junior ranks.
Under 18 Gold - 10-10, 6th in North West Conference. 1-1 in National Cup, round of 32.
The second of two teams representing the club in the age group, the Under 18 Gold squad comprised the younger end of the cohort. They also would have last competed in the Under 16 age group prior to the pandemic having an effect on sporting contests. Taking the season as a learning opportunity, squad Gold endured their fair share of growing pains and success as they adjusted to the pace and physicality at this level. Coach Vincent Bentham and his assistant Dylan Consterdine continued to challenge the group throughout the season, with the focus on developing for another tilt at the Under 18 Age group in 2022/23.
Senior Men - 15-5 in Division 3 North West. 1-1 in National Cup, round of 64.
The club's senior men enjoyed a successful season in a strong Division 3 North West conference, as they spent the entire season occupying one of the top-2 positions. A short cup run saw the Swarm men play Division 2 North runners-up Doncaster Eagles close before ultimately bowing out. A 9-1 home record at NBPC Belle Vue anchored the team's league challenge, featuring a mix of veteran experience and youthful energy.
The reward for a strong league showing was a place in the playoffs as the 11th overall seed. The Swarm would triumph in the round of 16 against East conference champions Anglia Ruskin University, before finally coming up short on the road against Worcester Wolves in the quarter finals.
Director of Basketball Mbongeni Mpofu said: "I believe that 2021/22 surprised us all at the club by how well it went, according to our objectives. We came into this with the goal of providing competition and development for kids in Manchester, alongside the aspiration of of one day playing competitive senior ball, and we did that and some.
We had 80+ people representing the club this season, which is no small number. I personally extend my thanks to all the club coaches for their efforts, along with our admin and support team who quietly and thanklessly put in the hard work to allow us do what we do between the lines.
We're all looking forward to 2022/23, and an exciting period of growth for the club, so you should definitely watch this space."
Trials get underway on Sunday 22 May at NBPC Belle Vue. All attendees must sign up here prior to arrival. Please monitor social media for updates.