Grad named UC Capitals first general manager

Lachlan Searle is looking forward to his new role as UC Capitals general manager. Photo: Michelle McAulay

Amanda Jones

12 August 2014: The University of Canberra Capitals are pleased to announce the appointment of Lachlan Searle as the club's first general manager.

The move is a significant step forward for the sporting team since the University of Canberra took over the licence for the team in May.

Having just returned from the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow which he attended with Swimming Australia, Mr Searle said he was looking forward to the new position with the WNBL side — which he will begin from Monday 18 August.

"The University of Canberra Capitals are a Canberra institution, synonymous with success and performance at the top level, and a team that leads the way for sport in the ACT," Mr Searle said.

The proud Canberran and University of Canberra graduate said he's looking forward to working with head coach Carrie Graf and the team "to ensure the UC Capitals captivate Canberra on and off the court."

"This season marks a new era for the University of Canberra Capitals on many fronts, and it's an exciting and challenging time to join one of Australia's most successful elite teams."

Mr Searle is moving from Swimming Australia where he was general manager of marketing and communications. Prior to that, he was marketing and communications manager for the Saracens Rugby Club (London), the Wallabies and the Brumbies. He was regional public affairs manager for the 2003 Rugby World Cup and media manager for the Australia A team for the 2001 British and Irish Lions tour.

University of Canberra Capitals CEO Joe Roff congratulated Mr Searle on his appointment.

"Mr Searle brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the role and I look forward to working with him as we embark on a new and exciting journey with the University of Canberra Capitals," Mr Roff said.

Head coach Carrie Graf said: "The appointment of a general manager is a huge step forward in the professionalism of our off court program. I'm excited about the prospect of working with Mr Searle to make the UC Capitals an even more special part of the ACT sporting landscape."

The general manager will be responsible for all aspects of the University of Canberra Capitals program including membership, events and hospitality, sponsorship and player contracting administration.

The University of Canberra Capitals were established on 16 May, taking over from Canberra's former WNBL team. The Canberra WNBL franchise is based at the University's Sporting Commons.

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