UNITED KINGDOM – The early summer scramble for British signatures continues as three more British players ink contracts with Elite League clubs for the coming season.
The most suprising move is that of Paul Sample, who has signed for the Newcastle Vipers after a year out of the game.
The 27 year old retired in 2009 after his 10th professional year in a career he spent time with Solihull Kings, Dundee Stars, Sheffield Steelers, Cardiff Devils and Belfast Giants. Capped 17 teams as a full Great Britain international, the speedy winger concentrated last season on his professional career returning to his native North East but has been tempted to play for his hometown club for the first time this coming season.
A best Elite League return of 38 points in 52 games, coach Danny Stewart will be hoping that Sample will be able to regain the touch that he had in a Steelers shirt. The news hasn’t come a moment too soon for the Vipers who have already lost star British forward David Longstaff to the Guildford Flames whilst Ben Campbell and Dean Holland have also moved on.
Also on the move is Swindon Wildcats top scorer Aaron Nell, 20, who scored 68 points (39+29) in 54 games in the striking Red & White of the Wildcats as they journeyed to the Playoff Finals.
Nell, who was a first reserve for the Great Britain national team, joins Elite League champions Coventry Blaze. The 20 year old forward spent 13 games on a 2-way agreement with the Blaze scoring 4 points (1+3) along the way.
One of the most promising prospects in British hockey, Nell is looking to take the opportunity to establish himself at the very top level of UK hockey.
Also at the Blaze, Coach Paul Thompson has confirmed that Joe Henry who announced he was joining EPL Telford Tigers this morning will remain on a 2-way contract with the Elite League club alongside teammate Jack Watkins.
Meanwhile, Great Britain international Jason Hewitt has agreed to return for a 6th season at Sheffield Steelers. The bulldog forward who scored 23 points (11+12) in 55 games at the struggling Steelers last season earning him a second Great Britain world championship appearences notching up his 10th international cap along the way. Hewitt also led all British players in PIMs last season, more even than notorious Edinbugh Capitals enforcer Andrew Sharp.
Elsewhere in the league, Braehead Clan have announced their first corporate sponsor in a local hotel chain whilst Trevor Gallant who scored 16 points in 6 games the last time he was on these shores is heavily rumoured to be moving to Nottingham Panthers from South Korean side High1.
Contact the writer phil.andrews@prohockeynews.com
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