SOLENT Stars have been dealt an unexpected pre-season blow by missing out on one of their two American targets.

Centre Chris Carswell was all set to add his imposing 6ft 7in frame to Mark Scott's squad next season, but he has had to withdraw for family reasons.

Club owner Bob Paulley expressed disappointment, saying: "We have negotiated over the summer with the player's agents and even paid the £95 to gain a work permit only to be informed of this at the last minute.

"They say there is the potential for a 6ft 10in player to replace Carswell, but this will mean a new permit application and an inevitable delay."

Encouragingly for Solent their other American signing, Matt Story, is due to fly in shortly.

Stars are holding final trials at Hamble Community Sports College today (Saturday, 2pm). One familiar face who will be attending is ex-Solent stalwart Drew Sewell.

Sewell spent several years on Stars' books in the 1980s and 90s and made 38 appearances for England during that period.

He still holds Solent's scoring record - a thumping 59 points in a Coca-Cola Cup game against Corby in the 1989/90 season, which Solent strolled 157-57.

Sewell recently played for Manchester in the annual Masters Tournament, defeating a team containing former Stars' player-coach Alan Cunningham in the final.

Solent's newly-launched women's squad continues to attract several experienced players and the recent disbanding of nearby Thames Valley Tigers means even more could be coming their way.

Coach Michael Ball still thinks the women have a long way to go before they will be fully prepared for National League action, but is he confident they will soon pick up the pace.

Administratively the ladies have appointed Cliff Fullbrook - recently voted administrator of the year by England Basketball - as team secretary. He will juggle that job with that of secretary of Stars' thriving youth programme.

There is just one week to go now before competitive action tips off at Fleming Park on Saturday, September 13. The women face Ipswich Bobcats at 6pm and the men meet Oxford Devils in a friendly two hours later.

Admission prices for the coming season are £6 for adults and £4 for children with concessions available. Full club details are available at www.solentstars.co.uk