NIHL North news

BLACKBURN, UK – Blackburn Hawks’ coach Jared Owen has announced his first summer signing, with defenseman Chris Arnone returning for his 7th season with the club. Arnone bagged 11 goals and 17 assists last term and Owen has

rewarded the effort by also appointing him as team captain. “Chris was the first name we wanted confirmed for next year,” said Owen. “We’ve watched his development over the past couple of seasons and feel he’s grown into the role of team captain. I have spoken with Chad (Briggs) and he’s happy to relinquish the role as he fully understands our reasons.” Arnone admitted he was excited to be back on the team, “It’s a massive honour for me to be named captain. I’m looking forward to seeing some new faces on the team and us having a real chance to win the league.” Hawks have also added Jim Pennycook as Chairman of Team Management. The former Fife Flyers and Murrayfield Racers forward was involved within the GB set-up for a number of years and the club will hope he can use his vast experience to finally deliver success to Blackburn Arena. Sheffield Spartans have confirmed player/coach Chris Wilcox has agreed to return for season 2012/13. Wilcox (left) endured a difficult first year, as Spartans flirted with relegation for much of the campaign, but is hopeful of better luck this time around. “I’m very excited about next season already,” said Wilcox. “There are a few exciting potential additions to last season’s roster and I really hope this season we’ll push for a play-off spot. I believe we had the potential last year to be a top four team, but for a few reasons it wasn’t to be. I hope to rectify that this season.” Champions Billingham Stars have announced their first signing of the summer with the return of influential defenseman Ben Davison. Stars are also believed to be interested in Manchester Phoenix forward Stephen Wallace, though face competition from a number of other NIHL teams. Deeside Dragons’ efforts to build a promotion winning team have been boosted by the return of last season’s top scorer, James Parsons. The forward grabbed 42 goals with 21 assists last term and will be hopeful of increasing that tally during the new campaign. Nottingham Lions’ bid to return to Division 1 has been boosted by the news netminders Dan Green and Sam Gospel will be joining the club on a two-way deal with Nottingham Panthers. Solihull are searching for a new goalie after Sam Hewitt confirmed he was leaving the Barons. Contact the author at: Michael.Black@prohockeynews.com