The Dragons start their Laidler Conference campaign at home to Blackburn Eagles on September 12th – 24 hours before a highly anticipated trip to local rivals Widnes Wild.
The Flintshire men have been installed as favourites by many fans for the league title, following this summer’s takeover by Red Hockey.
But with another local derby – against Altrincham Aces – on the Chester Road agenda for September 19th, Dragons chief Lol Paul faces a testing first few weeks. 
He said: “It is fair to say that I am looking forward to this season more than any other in my career. So to finally get the official fixture list is a real sign that we’re getting closer.
“Blackburn won’t be pushovers by any stretch of the imagination. We all know they struggled a bit last time out, but that has no bearing on the new season.
“Then we have a trip to Widnes. Of course, we see them as local rivals and have a huge amount of respect, but the guys will leave nothing on the ice. I will make sure of that.
“The visit of Altrincham on the 19th will be another chance to find out how far we’ve come. They were relegated last season and will have a lot to prove.”
Fans must wait until November 7th for the first return visit of Widnes to Deeside, with Nottingham Lions due to make an earlier trip north on October 3rd.
The Dragons’ festive programme includes a trip to face Blackburn on December 27th, before the visit of Coventry on January 2nd and an away encounter in Altrincham the next day.
The season ends on March 26th with the Wild’s second visit to Wales – a potential title decider, should early predictions prove correct.
Paul added: “In many ways, it doesn’t matter who we’re playing and when. It is nice to have some games around Christmas, but I know the guys will be ready to go whenever they’re needed.
“People will focus on certain matches, but I am taking it one game at a time. The most important thing for me is having passionate supporters, both at home and on the road.
“The noise inside Deeside Ice Rink, when it’s full, is going to be a big advantage. We had nearly 900 fans cheering us on at the end of last season. I want that kind of support at every home game.”
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