The Teesside Lions are proud to be playing a role in changing the perception of Teesside. As a sports team that not only travels the country representing the area, it also welcomes visiting teams and supporters to the region. 

The new move to Olympia Arena as part of a partnership with Teesside University has opened the eyes of many visitors who have been impressed with the scale and standard of development within the fantastic Campus Heart of Teesside University in the centre of Middlesbrough.

Teesside is often associated with a stigma of deprivation and heavy industry, but the landscape has been changing dramatically over the last couple of decades.

While the monuments of industry remain such as the iconic Transporter and Newport bridges, the timeline of change is evident with the award winning Infinity bridge and Tees Barrage that have cleaned the river and opened opportunities for water sports.  

Massive redevelopment and significant re-purpose of the two major town centres of Stockton and Middlesbrough are proving game changers as visitor attractions and entertainment hubs. 

The Olympia Arena within Teesside University is proving a big hit for basketball fans, bringing new visitors into the town centre and showcasing not only a great sporting facility but also an incredible university campus, that many, even locals are unaware of.

With any change, their is always an element of reluctance. People like creature comforts, and the move from Eston was just the case for many, including Stephanie Riddiough, from Middlesbrough, who attends Lions games with her family.

Stephanie is a four year fan of Lions and said: "Initially I was hesitant about moving from Eston, but the Olympia is brilliant. Nice and warm and a fantastic venue. I actually didn't realise this was here, and the area looks brilliant."

John, 34, from Stockton is another fan, and he acknowledged the impressive surroundings, stating: "I cant believe how superb the campus is here at Teesside University. There are some incredible buildings that prior to watching Teesside Lions play here, I was unaware of. Teesside Uni has done a wonderful job of redeveloping this area."

A visiting fan travelling from the South Coast recently, was also impressed, stating: "It is a nice area. Great event by the club and we look forward to coming back soon. Lots of hotels in the area make it a great place to stay overnight and there are some great bars and restaurants within walking distance. The people here are very friendly, but If I am honest I wasn't expecting the area to be as nice as it was. I was pleasantly surprised."

Teesside University has spent more than £280 million developing its Campus Heart in the centre of Middlesbrough. The £37 million Bios building has already caught the eye offering leading-edge new laboratories for the sciences and clinical subjects including anatomy, pharmacy, microbiology, chemistry, Earth sciences and food sciences.

The Curve is another architectural delight and award winning building while the-soon to be completed-£40 million Digital Life facility will provide an innovative research, teaching and learning facility for the School of Computing, Engineering & Digital Technologies, of which Teesside is a significant player in both education and employment with companies such as Multi award winning club sponsors Ryze, Visualsoft, Double Eleven, SockMonkey and Cardboard Sword based on Teesside.

Incorporating smart labs, digital art studios, a multi-functional lecture theatre and events space, Digital Life is a catalyst for physical and digital collaboration and study, simulating an industry-quality digital studio experience for students, business and visitors.

As Teesside evolves, Teesside University is further strengthening its position as an appealing destination for students to consider. More than 20,000 students are already enrolled. With the enhanced sporting opportunities such as basketball, and the links with Teesside Lions, it is also becoming an attractive proposition for student-athletes who can combine their studies with elite level sports. 

A number of students have also been enjoying watching the Lions play on campus.

Teesside Lions chairman James Thomson is pleased with the move, stating: "The feedback we are receiving is very positive, both as a game day experience, and regarding the impressive campus here at Teesside University. 

"Most people seem unaware of what is here on our doorstep. The state of the art facilities, and wow factor that Teesside University has created here in the centre of Middlesbrough is impressive. As town centres continue to evolve in their community role and function, Teesside University is ahead of the game in providing a great place for students and sports fans to study, work and enjoy.

"We are thrilled to welcome so many new people to the area, and for them to leave with such a positive impression is great for us and Teesside."