Our Coaches
Hackney Wolves is built on the strength of our coaching staff. Each coach brings not only knowledge of the game, but also the passion to inspire the next generation. Our team is committed to helping every child, from beginners taking their first dribble to advanced players competing in leagues, to develop their skills, grow in confidence, and enjoy the journey. We believe basketball is more than a sport: it’s a way to build resilience, teamwork, and lifelong friendships. That’s why our coaches create a safe, fun, and challenging environment where every player feels supported and encouraged to reach their full potential.
Nestor Diaz
CEO & Director of Coaching
Founder of Hackney Wolves, Nestor has over 17 years of coaching and teaching experience. Originally from Spain, he has led teams to championships in both Spain and the UK. Blending school teaching with club coaching, his focus is on using basketball to shape character and values while helping young people grow as athletes, students, and individuals.
Nessrine Barkahou
Head Coach
The first coach to join Hackney Wolves and a key figure through its growth years. Nessrine is a former player and U16 National Cup winner with not longer running but legendary Haringey Angels BC. At just 18 years old, she brings her competitive experience and passion for the game to inspire the next generation of Wolves players.
Dean Newby
Senior Coach
A driving force behind the expansion of Hackney Wolves’ National League teams over the past two years. Dean has been key to building the club’s competitive pathway, guiding players in both their individual development and their contribution to team success.
Siyana Ninova
Head Coach
Originally from Bulgaria, where she represented her country up to U21. For the past three years she has been a core member of Hackney Wolves, supporting the club through its most challenging and important stages of growth. Recently graduated in Sport Coaching and Psychology, she combines academic knowledge with international playing experience.
Ashley Fagan-Cooper
Head Coach
Part of Hackney Wolves from its early days, Ashley has now returned to the club. With years of youth coaching experience, he focuses on advanced skill development and team preparation, helping players reach their potential.
Amelia
Coach
Amelia joined Hackney Wolves in 2024 after finishing her own playing career. Having been on court until last year, she brings fresh, first-hand playing experience that connects strongly with our young athletes. She creates an environment where players feel warm welcome making the club a happier place.
Barbara
Head Coach
Brings valuable experience from Spain and coachs with energy and dedication. Barbara’s background enriches the Wolves coaching team and provides players with high-level insight.
OUR PARTNERS & SUPPORTERS
At Hackney Wolves, we are proud to work with a network of partners who share our vision of making basketball accessible to every child in Hackney. Their support helps us provide high-quality coaching, community programmes, and opportunities for young players to grow on and off the court.
We work closely with Hackney Council, local schools, and national organisations such as Basketball England. With the support of Investec and other community partners, we are able to expand opportunities, provide holiday camps, and deliver free programmes that bring basketball to more young people in Hackney.
Key Partners
Our Story
Founded in 2022 with just one player in Millfields Park, Hackney Wolves has grown into a thriving community club. Today, we run 20+ weekly sessions, holiday camps, and league teams across Hackney
About Hackney Wolves Basketball Club
About Hackney Wolves Basketball Club
Hackney Wolves Basketball Club was founded in 2022 by Nestor Díaz with the vision of creating a true basketball culture in Hackney. What started with a single child training in Millfields Park has grown into a community club with over 20 weekly sessions, National and Local League teams, and holiday camps for players of all ages.
Our mission is simple: to provide every child, regardless of background or ability, the chance to enjoy basketball, build confidence, and reach their potential both on and off the court.
Through excellence in coaching, safeguarding, and community spirit, we continue to inspire the next generation of basketball players in Hackney.
OUR TEAM
Our Leadership Team
Hackney Wolves is guided by a dedicated group of volunteer directors who bring experience, passion, and community focus to the club. Together with our coaching and admin staff, they ensure that every child in Hackney has the opportunity to enjoy basketball in a safe and supportive environment.
Goncalo Lima
Director
Brings strategic and governance experience to support the club’s growth.
Shermain Philips
Director & Admin Lead
Manages administration, operations, and day-to-day organisation of club activities.
Nestor Diaz
CEO & Founder, Director of Coaching & Safeguarding Lead
Leads the club’s vision, coaching philosophy, and long-term development.
Helen Krampoutsa
Director & Safeguarding Lead
Oversees safeguarding and welfare to ensure a safe environment for all players.
board@hackneywolvesbasketball.com
safeguarding@hackneywolvesbasketball.com
Emily Anderson
Fundraiser
Leads fundraising and partnership development to expand opportunities for players and families.
NON-PROFIT, COMMUNITY-BASED CLUB
Our Commitment
Hackney Wolves runs as a non-profit organisation, led by a team of volunteer directors who give their time to grow the game in Hackney. Our coaches and admin staff strive to deliver high-quality, professional sessions and keep the club running smoothly.
Every penny of support and funding is reinvested into our programmes, facilities, and opportunities for young players. Families who join us become part of more than just a club, they join a community built on teamwork, inclusion, and passion for the game.