Latest Widnes Wild NIHL Team Signings

Tristan Grimshaw (left) and Mikey Gilbert celebrate the 2022 Moralee Cup win – photo by Geoff White

The Widnes Wild NIHL team’s roster is nearing completion as they make final preparations for the new 2024/24 NIHL Moralee Division season. Recent signings include a mix of familiar faces, junior Academy players and promising young talent.

The best known of the latest signings is Tristan Grimshaw who previously played for the Wild team on and off from 2019 to 2022. He was originally a Telford Tigers junior player but played the 2019/20 season with the Widnes Academy Under 18 team.

Grimshaw made his senior debut for the Wild with a single appearance during the 2019/20 season.  It was particularly notable as he was one of three Under 18 players – along with Sam Anderson and Jake Lowndes - who had to rush from a junior game that had barely finished playing on the other ice pad at iceSheffield to shore up a badly depleted Wild line-up in a 9-0 Midlands Cup defeat against Sutton Sting.

He was also a member of the Wild team that came second in the behind closed doors Three Rivers Cup competition and who went on to win the Division One National Championship during the 2021 short Covid series. 

Tristan then played a full season for the Wild in the Moralee Division and North Cup in the 2021/22 season scoring 1 goal and 2 assists in 35 appearances and helping the team to win the Moralee Cup. He has spent the past 2 seasons playing for the Nottingham Lions in both the Moralee and Laidler Divisions, notching up 33 goals and 38 assists in 87 league games.

Talking about Grimshaw’s return to the Wild, Widnes player-coach Tom Jackson said: “Tristan is a guy who I’ve watched develop over the past few seasons to the player he is today. He has been around during summer skates and had impressed me over that time. I’m happy to have him back in a Wild shirt and think he will do well this season, working within the systems we will be implementing.”

Meanwhile, Grimshaw said of the move: “It was a difficult decision for me to leave Nottingham, but when TJ called and discussed his aspirations for next season and the team he was building, I felt it was the right choice to return. I’m excited to see TJ jumping up into a coaching role and taking the club in the right direction.”

Jared Knowles – photo by Geoff White.

Another well known Widnes face is 16 year old forward Jared Knowles who is a long term Wild Academy junior player. He was the Under 18 team’s top scorer last season and also played for England U16s against Scotland in 2023.  Jared will also continue to play for the Widnes juniors this season as well to help with his ongoing development. 

Talking about signing Knowles, Wild player-coach Tom Jackson said: “Jared is a quality young player who has the opportunity to develop by training up with the Wild. He’s a home grown product from the junior system and has been training with the team last season. Jared will be given as much opportunity as the senior guys this year to earn his ice time and show what he can bring to the team.”

A new face for the Wild this year is 16 year old defenceman Will Daley, who also played on the England Under 16 team alongside Jared Knowles. He is a former Whitley and Solway junior player who joins on a 2-way deal with Solway Under 19s

The week’s signings are rounded off with two young netminding prospects - 17 year old Logan Reid who played in 4 games for the Wild last season on a 2-way deal with his hometown club Solway Sharks and 19 year old Harry Campbell who is on a 2-way deal with Kilmarnock Thunder.

Wild Announce Pre-Season Games

The Wild also played two entertaining and closely fought games against Telford last season (Photo by Steve Cunningham)

The Widnes Wild NIHL team have announced three mouth-watering pre-season challenge matches as a warm-up to their 2024/25 Moralee Division campaign.

Player coach Tom Jackson’s new look Wild side will first take to the ice on Sunday 1st September when they will take on Bradford Bulldogs at Planet Ice Widnes, 5.30pm fade off.

The following weekend, they have a home and away double header against last season’s Laidler Division champions Telford Tigers.  The home game is on Saturday 7th September, 7pm face off, and the away game is the next day in Telford, with the puck dropping at 6pm.

The NIHL season proper starts the weekend after with a road trip to Hull and back on Saturday 14th when the Wild play Hull Jets in their first league fixture of the season.  They are home the next day when they take on last season’s league champions Billingham Stars at Planet Ice Widnes, 5.30pm face off.

George Spofforth Joins Deeside Ducks

George Spofforth as a Chester Road Reaper (Photo by Lewis Cleveland)

The Deeside Ducks have announced the signing of George Spofforth to add to their roster for their debut 2024/25 Laidler Division season.

The 22 year old defenceman is a former Dragons Under 18 player and has most recently been playing for the Chester Road Reapers recreational team.

Talking about joining the Ducks, George said:

“I have played hockey since U18s but it was cut short due to Covid. I went on to play a year at Widnes and a year of rec but I’m now ready to get back to League.”

Commenting on Spofforth’s signing, Ducks’ Lead Coach Peter Bleackley said:

“George is a product of our junior club. He is always hard working and a good skater and penalty killer. I am looking forward to working with him this season.”

You can follow the progress of the new Deeside Ducks team as they prepare for their debut season in the NIHL Laidler Division on their Facebook page HERE

2 More Sign For Widnes Wild NIHL Team

Luke Alston playing for the Wild away at Hull last season (Photo by Vince Cowell)

The Widnes Wild NIHL team have announced the signing of a new player and a returnee from last season.

The new player is 19 year-old defenceman Joe Howie who is a former Nottingham junior player. He played a number of games for the Nottingham Lions in both Laidler and Moralee Divisions and spent last season with Bradford Bulldogs, where he made 32 appearances, scoring 2 goals and 15 assists.

New Wild signing Joe Howie
(Photo by Nottingham Lions IHC)

Talking about signing Howie for the Wild, Widnes player-coach Tom Jackson said:  “Joe was recommended by Bradford coach Andy Brown to me when building the team this season for being ready to step up into NIHL 1. At the time of writing this I’ve only seen Joe on the ice a few times but he moves well and makes good decisions and will certainly add to our defensive core for this upcoming season. He’s got a great attitude for hockey and I’m delighted to have him on board.”

Talking about joining Widnes, Howie said: “I am really excited to get started with the Wild and hoping to add value to the team straight away defensively. I’m also looking forward to building and developing on my previous NIHL 1 experience with Nottingham. I’m also very lucky to be able to still train with Bradford each week and hopefully get a few games in with them too.”

The returning player is 17 year old Luke Alston  - a Wild Academy junior player who made his senior NIHL debut for Widnes last season playing on a 3 way deal with the Under 18s, the Wild in the Moralee Division and the Kilmarnock Thunder in the Scottish National League, which gave him plenty of ice time across the three separate teams.  

In his debut season for the Wild NIHL team, Alston made 12 appearances in all competitions. He rejoins the Wild on the same 3-way basis this season, which will continue to help with his development.

Wild player-coach Tom Jackson said of Alston: “Luke is another great product of the Wild junior development. Last season saw him gain the opportunity to play with the Wild for the first time, which he has earned for another season this coming year. Luke will be on a two-way arrangement with Kilmarnock Thunder this year, as he was last season to further his development.”

Meanwhile, Luke added:  “I’m very glad to be back at Widnes for another season, building on from last year we can definitely strive for great things. I’ve been working hard during the off season to improve and looking forward to having the opportunity to show this on the ice.”

Deeside Ducks Sign Michael Speare

Michael Speare in action for the Junior Dragons (Photo by Dragons IHC)

The Deeside Ducks have announced the signing of Michael Speare to add to their roster for their debut 2024/25 Laidler Division season.

The 22 year old defender is a long term Deeside junior from Under 10s upwards and was an Alternate Captain for the Dragons Under 15 and Under 18 teams

He made his senior debut last season with the Bradford Bulldogs in the Laidler Division, making 24 appearances and scoring 11 goals and 6 assists.

Talking about joining the Ducks, Michael said:

I am excited to be back at the Den where my career began, following an excellent season with the Bradford Bulldogs where I developed so much as a senior player.  I am looking forward to the coming season and to growing and evolving my game with the Ducks.  I am eager to be part of the exciting new team dynamic. I relish this opportunity and will strive to make this team the very best it can be.

Commenting on Speare’s signing, Ducks’ Lead Coach Peter Bleackley said:

“Mikey started at Deeside juniors as an U10 and has always had a strong work rate. He was our Junior Captain and last season he made the step up to Division 2 playing for Bradford Bulldogs under the watchful eye of their head coach Andy Brown.

He is a solid player with a great attitude and I am expecting lots of points from Mikey this season.

You can follow the progress of the new Deeside Ducks team as they prepare for their debut season in the NIHL Laidler Division on their Facebook page HERE

Connah's Quay Cobras Win RecFest Plate

The Connah's Quay Cobras celebrate winning the 2024 Sheffield RecFest Plate (Photo by Cobras IHC) 

The Connah’s Quay Cobras took part in the prestigious annual Sheffield Recfest tournament at the weekend, winning the Plate competition.

This tournament is an impressive feat of planning and logistics and featured 15 different teams taking part in 60 short-format games over the two days.

In the initial group games on the Saturday, the Cobras drew 1-1 with Don Valley Vikings – who they had also played the week before in the Summer Cup play off final – beat Solihull Jesters 6-0, Chester Road Reapers 3-0, and lost 1-0 to eventual group winners TriBase Lightning.

This saw them finish the day in second place in their group with 5 points – three behind TriBase, who had a 100% record.

For the Sunday games, all of the teams were put into new groups reflecting their relative finishing positions on the Saturday and the Cobras were put in the B Group.

Once again, they drew 1-1 with Don Valley, but then notched up wins over Birmingham Rockets 3-0, Sheffield Blazers 4-0 and Nottingham Outlaws 2-0 to finish top of the group with 7 points out of 8 and secure the RecFest Plate.

The A Group winners - and overall tournament champions - were Coventry Snipers, who also won the title last year.

Cobras’ player Louie Bailey received the award for best forward of the tournament.

Cobras' Louie Bailey was the best forward at RecFest 2024 (Photo by Cobras IHC)

Rory Sillery Signs For Deeside Ducks

Rory Sillery - right of picture - as MVP for Riverside Raiders (Photo by Paul Breeze)

The Deeside Ducks have announced the signing of Rory Sillery to add to their roster for their debut 2024/25 Laidler Division season.

The 19 year old defenceman is a former Widnes junior academy player and has recently been playing for the Widnes-based Riverside Raiders recreational team. 

Talking about joining the Ducks, Rory said:

“I am honoured to get the opportunity to train and play alongside everyone.  I feel that it is going to be a good season and I can’t wait to see where it goes.”

Deeside Juniors Head Coach James Parsons said of Sillery: 

“Rory wasn’t able to make it to our trials in June, but he jumped in with us for a session and fit right in with the team. Rory has a great work rate and can play both forward and defence, which will be a massive help for the team this season. He is another player who has joined us with a great attitude and the drive to transition to league hockey. Welcome, Rory!”

You can follow the progress of the new Deeside Ducks team as they prepare for their debut season in the NIHL Laidler Division on their Facebook page HERE

Match Report: Bradford Cannibals 6 – Halton Huskies 11 (Blood, Sweat & Beers Cup)

10th August 2024 - Blood, Sweat & Beers Cup: Bradford Cannibals 6 – Halton Huskies 11

The Halton Huskies rounded off their Blood, Sweat and Beers Cup group games with a 6-11 win away over the Bradford Cannibals in West Yorkshire.

Bradford actually took an early lead in this game and were 2-0 up after just 6 minutes. Nathan Hewitt scored the Huskies’ first goal on 10 minutes and then a Jackson goal on 16 minutes saw them draw level.  A last gasp Cannibals goal with just 22 seconds to go in the period saw them edge ahead once again and the score remained 3-2 at the first period break.

The second period saw Halton take control and four unanswered goals – from Dominic Gray (2), Jackson again, and Valerica Florea gave them a 3-6 lead at the second interval.

The Huskies carried that same form into the third period and a further goal just 11 seconds in from Jake Berry made it 3-7 to the visitors. 

Bradford hit back with 3 goals of their own but further strikes from Matt Kohler, Thomas Pendlebury, Hewitt and Florea again saw the Huskies finish 6-11 winners.

The result means that the Huskies finish top of the cup group table with 6 wins and two draws from their 8 games while last year’s winners - Blackburn Renegades - finish in second with three wins and two  draws.  

Manchester Swarm are currently in 3rd place with three wins from their 8 games but could still be overtaken by Bradford Cannibals who play their last game this weekend against Sheffield Ice Tigers.

The top three teams will feature in a play off with the Huskies  – as league champions – going straight into the final and the second and third placed teams playing an eliminator match beforehand.

Widnes Wild NIHL Team Re-Sign Netminder Pearson

Phil & Emma Pearson 2019 – Photo by Hannah Walker

The Widnes Wild NIHL team have re-signed netminder Phil Pearson for the forthcoming 2024/25 Moralee Division season.

The 37 year old goalie returns for what will be his 4th season in Widnes colours, having originally joined the club for the 2019/20 Covid curtailed Laidler Division season 

He was Head Coach of the Widnes Wild women’s team that won the Division 2 North championship in the 2019/20 season and was part of the Wild team that won the “behind closed doors” North 21 Cup and Division 1 National Championship in 2021.

Pearson made the headlines twice more during the 2019/20 season. In December 2019, his wife – Wild women’s captain Emma Pearson - played on the same Wild team making them the first married couple to play together in a competitive NIHL match and in February 2020 he was named player of the Month for the Laidler Division.

Phil has played for a number of clubs in his 13 year senior career, notching up over 170 appearances, with stints at Flintshire Freeze, Lancashire Raptors, Blackburn Eagles, Bradford Bulldogs and Deeside Dragons, as well as 4 years of university hockey with the Manchester Metros.  

Last season, he played 10 games for the Wild, facing 338 shots and achieved a 85.80% Save Percentage.

Wild NIHL Player Coach Tom Jackson said of Pearson:

“Philip has been around the team for a number of years now with a short holiday in between, he’s a dependable guy who I hope will be a mentor to the younger goalies around the team. It’s a pleasure to secure his services for another season and if he is needed I know he can step in and can be depended on.”

Talking about his return to the Wild, Phil said:

“I’m looking forward to getting going for the new season. When TJ contacted me asking me to re sign it was a no brainer. Last season wasn’t the best for the team, so I’m hoping we can put it right this season with some impressive performances. I have been working hard in the off season so will hopefully hit the ground running when the new season starts.”

Coaches' Quotes From Cobras Play Off Weekend

Cobras' Player Coach Emma Dutton at the Summer Classic Cup play offs in Sheffield (Photo by RDG Digital)

Looking back over the Summer Classic Cup play offs at iceSheffield last weekend, Connah’s Quay Cobras player coach Emma Dutton said:

“This time last year we had only played three games of hockey as a team with one win. We've had the most incredible season and worked together to earn our place at playoff weekend.”

“By showcasing some of the best hockey we've ever played, we got the win against Leeds Lightning. Although it was disappointing to lose to Don Valley in the final after being up 5-0, we're still immensely proud of our achievements in just our first year competing for the cup.”

"This experience has only fuelled our determination, and we're excited to bring our energy and passion to RecFest next weekend."

Team Manager Scott Dutton added: 

 “It's the Cobras first full season and we came so close to winning the cup. It has been an incredible journey with the team and I am very proud of everyone's performance, both at playoffs and all season.”

“It was great to have such support in the crowds at Sheffield. Both games were extremely crowd pleasing and hearing the roars really pushed the team on.”

The Cobras are back in Sheffield again this weekend 17^th & 18^th August when they will take part in the annual RecFest tournament.  They finished as runners up in the tournament last year and will be hoping to go one better this time around.  

Match Report: Don Valley Vikings 9 - Connah's Quay Cobras 8 (Summer Classic Cup Play Off Final)

The Connah's Quay Cobras team - Summer Classic Cup Elite Play Off Runners Up 2024 (Photo by Cobras IHC) 

Sunday 11^th August – Summer Classic Cup Play Off Final: Don Valley Vikings 9 – Connah’s Quay Cobras 8

The Connah’s Quay Cobras put in a battling performance in the Summer Classic Cup play off final at iceSheffield on Sunday but narrowly lost out 9-8 to defending champions Don Valley Vikings.

Despite having had a tough game and a late finish the evening before in their semi-final win over Leeds, the Cobras actually got off to a very good start in the final

Stewart Cutting gave them an early lead just 25 seconds into the game and further goals from Sam Plant (2) and Martyn Rybka had then 0-4 up after just 7 minutes.

A second goal from Rybka saw the Cobras go 0-5 up after 14 minutes before the Vikings steadied the ship and hit their first goal of the game.

Another Don Valley goal quickly followed – then a Rybka hat-trick strike but another goal conceded with just 30 seconds left on the clock left the score standing at 3-6 at the end of a frenetic first period.

The Vikings – playing on their home ice – continued their fight back in the second period and were level at 6-6 by the midway point of the game.

A goal from Sam Krempasky edged the Cobras back into the lead on 31 minutes but they were unable to build any further on this and the score remained 6-7 at the second interval.

An early goal 90 seconds into the third period drew the Vikings level again and then two more strikes saw them take the lead for the first time in the game and edge further ahead.

There were still 14 minutes left to play but the Cobras found it difficult to respond to this set-back.

A second goal from Rybka on 53 minutes narrowed the deficit to just one goal but that was as good as it got for the Connor’s Quay team and the Vikings held on to secure the 9-8 victory and the impressive replica of the world famous Stanley Cup.

While a defeat is always disappointing - and a single goal margin all the more so – the Cobras can still be proud of their record in this year’s Summer Classic Cup.

Having reached the final of the Elite Division play offs in just their second year of existence and their first year of competition is a superb achievement and one that certainly bodes well for the future.

The Cobras are back in Sheffield again this weekend 17^th & 18^th August when they will take part in the annual RecFest tournament.  They finished as runners up in the tournament last year and will be hoping to go one better this time around.  

Match Report: Leeds Lightning 6 - Connah's Quay Cobras 7 (Summer Classic Cup Play Off Semi Final)

The Connah's Quay Cobras and Leeds Lightning teams after their Summer Classic Cup Play Off Semi Final at iceSheffield (Photo by Cobras IHC)

Saturday 10^th August – Summer Classic Cup Play Off Semi Final: Leeds Lightning 6 – Connah’s Quay Cobras 7

Having finished second in their qualification group, the Cobras were paired up against the winners of the A Group – Leeds Lightning - in this semi final clash at iceSheffield on Saturday.

It was a very closely fought and entertaining game to watch and the result remained in doubt until the very last minutes. 

Leeds took the lead on 3 minutes, punishing an early Cobras penalty for tripping but Connah’s Quay soon bounced back and Chris Keating levelled the score in the 6^th minute.

Another powerplay goal for Leeds saw them edge ahead again 90 seconds later but Keating once again levelled the scores on 14 minutes and the match remained tied at 2-2 at the first period break.

The second period was just as close and it took until the midway point for the next breakthrough.  The Cobras took the lead for the first time with a goal from Slavomir Sykora but were pegged back again by a Leeds equaliser 65 seconds later.

The Lightning went ahead once again with another powerplay goal on 33 minutes and held on to lead 4-3 at the second interval. 

The Cobras got the third period off to a good start and levelled the score with a powerplay strike from Martin Rybka just 90 seconds in. 

Leeds hit back again to retake the lead on 47 minutes but two quick-fire goals just 40 seconds apart – from Stewart Cutting and Keating (his hat trick) -  turned the game on its head and gave the Cobras a 6-5 lead.

Leeds managed to draw level again with just over 3 minutes left to play, setting up a tense finale, but a 4th goal of the night from Keating on 58 minutes settled matters and the Cobras held on to win a place in Sunday’s final. 

Deeside Ducks Sign Josh Jones

Josh Jones as a Chester Road Reaper (Photo by Drew Brown Official) 

The Deeside Ducks have announced the signing of Josh Jones to add to their roster for their debut 2024/25 Laidler Division season.

The 20 year old forward is a long term member of the Deeside junior development system and has played for the junior club at every level from Under 10s upwards.

He is one of a number of players who “aged out” of the junior system during the Covid lockdowns and was also affected by the continued closure of the Deeside rink afterwards.

He has most recently been playing for the Deeside based Chester Road Reapers recreational team.

Talking about joining the Ducks,  Josh said:

“I played as a Dragons junior from the Under 10s all the way through until Covid hit and we lost the rink.  I came back and played for a year of rec hockey for the Reapers at Deeside and now I am a Duck.  I cannot wait to get started playing league hockey again.”

Ducks’ Assistant Coach Simon Hughes said of Jones:

“If you're looking for the epitome of a Deeside Ducks player, it is Josh Jones.”

“Coming up through the ranks of the Juniors, his ice hockey career started as an 8 year old icing for the Dragons U10's, highlighted by selection with England U13 showcase. With the reopening of the rink, Josh resorted to recreational hockey with the Chester Road Reapers.”

“As a forward with a keen eye for goal, from his preferred position of right wing, he is an agile skater with an unwavering enthusiasm for the sport. I am confident that the coaching team at the Ducks will harness his boundless energy and hone his skill set into a fully rounded member of this new senior NIHL D2 team.”

“Josh has ambition to progress to D1 with the Dragons before he's 25 and who knows where his career may peak.”

“Selection in the Ducks squad and securing his number 73 means a lot to him personally (chosen by his late Grandmother), so I am looking forward to seeing him develop and progress as a competitive senior player to do the jersey proud.”

You can follow the progress of the new Deeside Ducks team as they prepare for their debut season in the NIHL Laidler Division on their Facebook page HERE

Sledge Hockey Weekend Round-Up – 11th August 2024

Cardiff Huskies celebrate their 3rd title in in a row after their away win at Peterborough (Photo by Rob Walker Photography)

Cardiff Huskies won the league title for the third year in a row after a narrow 5-3 defeat away to Peterborough Phantoms left both teams on the same number of points at the top of the table.

Goals from Ali Amini and D-Jay Hall gave the Phantoms an early lead but a strike from Huskies Tyler Christopher on 12 minutes saw the score standing at a very close 2-1 at the first period break.

It was a similar story in the second period with two goals for Peterborough’s top scorer Gary Farmer and one from Cardiff’s Josh Campbell.  4-2 with one period of the regular season left to play.

It was honours even in the third period with Hall scoring again for the Phantoms and Christopher on target for Cardiff, and the game finished in a 5-3 win for Peterborough.

This result saw the closest possible of finishes at the top of the league table with both teams on 18 points from their 6 wins.

Peterborough actually had the better goal difference across the league season with +24 as opposed to Cardiff’s +13 but, in ice hockey, teams tied on points are separated by the combined results in matches played between the two of them. 

With Cardiff having beaten Peterborough in the Welsh capital 5-1 earlier in the season, the Phantoms’ 5-3 weekend victory was not enough to overturn that, so the Huskies were crowned champions.

Phantoms’ Gary Farmer ended up with the most points for the season with 28 goals and 2 assists from 8 games while Cardiff’s Tyler Christopher was second with 17+7 from 7.

Manchester Mayhem’s Karl Nicholson and Sheffield Steelkings’ Connor Grocock and Daniel Clarke also made double figures while Steelkings’ Jake Oakley had the most assists with 9, along with 9 goals.

Cardiff’s Dan Hutchinson had the best netminding record with a miserly 0.75 Goals Against Average and a 95.52 Save Percentage. Mayhem’s Darren Pomfrett was the only netminder to play all 360 minutes of the league season and he picked up the most shut outs with 2.

All eyes now look to the end of season play off weekend to be held in Nottingham on 14^th & 15^th September.

League champions Cardiff will play 4th place finishers Mayhem in their semi final match, while second place Peterborough will play third place Sheffield Steelkings.

The winners of the two semi-finals will progress to the play off final on the Sunday, with the two losers meeting in a 3^rd place game beforehand.

You can see up-to-date league standings, player statistics and match summary sheets for the 2024 sledge hockey season on our unofficial stats website HERE. 

Heather Clarkson Joins Deeside Ducks

The Deeside Ducks have announced the signing of Heather Clarkson to add to their roster for their debut 2024/25 Laidler Division season.

The 18 year old defender is a former Manchester mixed juniors player, was captain of the Manchester Storm Under 16 girls team for two seasons and has also played Women’s Elite League hockey for the Hull-based Kingston Diamonds.

Heather spent last season playing for the Widnes Wild Under 18 team.  She was also selected as a reserve for the Great Britain women’s Under 18 squad that played in the 4 Nations tournament in Spain in November 2023 but did not actually get called up to play.

Talking about joining the Ducks, Heather said:

“I am honoured to get the opportunity to train and play alongside everyone.  I feel that it’s going to be a good season and I can’t wait to see where it goes.”

Ducks’ Assistant Coach Stewart Cutting said of Clarkson:

“Heather is a bright young hockey player joining from Widnes. She sees the game well and isn't afraid to get stuck in. I am looking forward to seeing this talented individual develop her game further with the Ducks.”

You can follow the progress of the new Deeside Ducks team as they prepare for their debut season in the NIHL Laidler Division on their Facebook page HERE

Widnes Wild Under 10s Win Hull Tournament

The Wild Academy Under 10 team won the 2024 Hull Tournament (Photo by Wild Academy)

The Widnes Wild Academy Under 10 team won their second trophy of the summer with a victory at the Hull Tournament.   

In the 5 team group games, they beat Kingston (Hull) 12-3, Peterborough 11-0 and Sutton 1-0, with their only defeat coming 4-1 at the hands of local rivals Deeside. 

There followed two semi-finals with the top four finishers in the group playing each off in seeded pairs. Table toppers Deeside beat fourth place finishers Kingston 7-3 while runners up Widnes beat third place Peterborough 7-1 to set up a fascinating all north west final for the trophy.

That game saw the Wild youngsters avenge their previous group game defeat  with a 4-0 victory to secure their second tournament victory of the summer. 

They had already won the prestigious Sheffield tournament a few weeks earlier and also won at Sheffield two years ago, so the club will soon be needing a bigger trophy cabinet!

The Wild Academy are looking to recruit new players for the 2024/2025 season across all age groups from Under 10 to Under 18 and have been holding a series of welcome sessions at the Planet Ice rink during the summer months. 

Separate “Learn To Play” sessions are also available for anybody new who would like to take up the sport.  For more information, contact Academy Head Coach mike.gilbert@wildacademy.co.uk

Deeside Ducks Sign Thomas Milnes

New Deeside Ducks signing Thomas Milnes (Photo by Manchester Storm Academy)

The Deeside Ducks have announced the signing of Thomas Milnes to add to their roster for the forthcoming 2024/25 Laidler Division season.

The 17 year old forward is a former Blackburn and Manchester junior player and has over 70 competitive games under his belt at Under 15 to Under 18 level, with 92 goals and 33 assists to his record.

Talking about joining the Ducks, Thomas said:”I am really looking forward to my first season with the Deeside Ducks. I have been playing hockey for 7 years at Manchester Storm Academy and Blackburn Hawks Academy. 

“I’m really grateful to have been given the opportunity to be able to play for the club this season for the D2 team and also excited for the great experience that comes with it.”

“I’m ready to give all I can offer and can’t wait to see you all at games in the new season.”

James Parsons, Head Coach of the Deeside Juniors, said of Milnes: “Thomas also came to our open trial in June, and you could see right away that he had a great skill set and fittedin well with the team. I look forward to seeing how he develops in his first season of senior hockey. Welcome, Thomas!”

You can follow the progress of the new Deeside Ducks team as they prepare for their debut season in the NIHL Laidler Division on their Facebook page HERE

Sledge Hockey Weekend Round-Up – 3rd August 2024

League leaders Cardiff Huskies gave their title hopes a huge boost with a 4-2 win over Manchester Mayhem in the Welsh capital on Saturday, courtesy of three goals from Tyler Christopher and one from Jon Le Galloudec.

Karl Nicholson scored the two Mayhem goals.

Also on Saturday, the Steelkings beat the Steelstings quite convincingly 12-0 in the Sheffield derby game, with all 8 outfield players getting on the scoresheet.

Connor Grocock led the goal rush with 4 goals, Ray Buckle scored a hat-trick, Jake Oakley a brace and Daniel Clarke, John Plummer and Paul Brown all got one each. Rachel Paget completed the set with an assist on the last goal.

Overworked Stings netminder Bryan Hackworth faced an incredible 47 shots over the 45 minute game, of which he kept an impressive 35 out.

The weekend results mean that Cardiff are now 2 points clear at the top of the league table with 12 points from their 7 games to date.

Sheffield Steelkings are second with 10 points after their 12-0 “rink derby” win over their second team Steelstings and Peterborough Phantoms also have 10 points but are in third place by virtue of their results against the Kings. 

The destination of the 2024 BPIHL crown will be decided on Saturday 10^th August when the Phantoms host the Huskies in the very last match of the league season.

Both teams are still in with a chance of winning the title but the Huskies are very much in the driving seat. In order to overtake them at the top of the table, the Phantoms would need to beat Cardiff by 5 goals or more – to overturn their 5-1 defeat in the Welsh capital back in July.

A 5-1 win for Peterborough on Saturday would mean that the two teams were level on points and on “games between” and the title would then be decided on overall goal difference, in which case Peterborough would come out on top.

Any other scenario would see Cardiff lift the league trophy for the third time in a row.

You can see up-to-date league standings, player statistics and match summary sheets for the 2024 sledge hockey season on our unofficial stats website HERE. 

Widnes Wild Sign Netminder Henry

Charlie Henry in action for the West Coast Renegades (Photo by Renegades IHC)

The Widnes Wild NIHL team have signed promising young netminder Charlie Henry for the forthcoming 2024/25 Moralee Division season.

The 19 year old is a former Nottingham junior player and also had a brief spell in the United States where he played for the West Coast Renegades of Utah in the North American Prospects Hockey League (NAPHL).

Henry made a number of appearances for the Sheffield Steeldogs in the NIHL National Division during the 2022/23 season and spent last season with the Sheffield Titans in the Laidler Division.

Talking about joining the Wild, Charlie said: “I’m excited to be in Widnes for the upcoming season. It’s an incredible opportunity to be part of such a dynamic and passionate group. I can’t wait to hit the ice and contribute to the team’s success. Go Wild!”

Widnes Player-Coach Tom Jackson said of Henry: “Charlie approached me during the summer and from the first time I spoke to him I could tell he was eager to compete and work for his spot on the team.”

“He has been on the ice a few times with some of the guys over the summer and shown his ability, pairing that with being 6”4 at 19 he’s got a lot of potential. He is a great addition to what I hope to be a competitive goalie roster to pick from!”

Match Report: Cardiff Huskies 4 - Mayhem 2 (British Para Ice Hockey League)

Karl Nicholson scored both Mayhem goals away to Cardiff – Photo by Roksana Oniszczuk

3rd August 2024 – British Para Ice Hockey League: Cardiff Huskies 4 - Mayhem 2 

The Mayhem sledge team rounded off their British Para Ice Hockey League regular schedule with a spirited and close fought 4-2 defeat away to title favourites Cardiff Huskies on Saturday.

Despite the end result, the Mayhem gave a very good account of themselves and the result could easily have gone either way until the final moments.

It took until half way through the first period for the opening deadlock to be broken – with the goal coming from Cardiff’s top scorer Tyler Christopher on 7½ minutes.  

A little over two minutes later, the score was 2-0 to the league leaders courtesy of a Jon Le Galloudec strike 

But the Mayhem narrowed the deficit with a goal of their own from Karl Nicholson with 2 minutes left in the period to leave the score at 2-1 at the first interval.

The second period was just as cagey as the first and, once again, it took until the half way stage for the next goal – which was, again, scored by Karl Nicholson to draw the Mayhem level.

A third Cardiff goal – Christopher’s second of the game – edged the hosts back in front just 75 seconds later and the score remained 3-2 at the second period break.

The Mayhem pushed forward in the third period, putting the Cardiff goal under pressure in the hope of forcing a late equaliser.  However they got caught out at the back and a hat-trick goal from Tyler Christopher further extended the Huskies’ lead and the game finished 4-2.

The result means that Cardiff are now 2 points clear at the top of the league table with 12 points from their 7 games to date.

Sheffield Steelkings are second with 10 points after their “rink derby” win over their second team Steelstings and Peterborough Phantoms also have 10 points but are in third place by virtue of their results against the Kings.  

The destination of the 2024 BPIHL crown will be decided on Saturday 10th August when the Phantoms host the Huskies in the very last match of the league season.

There's a round up of all of the weekend sledge hockey action HERE

And you can see up-to-date league standings, player statistics and match summary sheets for the 2024 sledge hockey season on our unofficial stats website HERE.  

Luke Wainwright Joins Deeside Ducks

Luke Wainwright as a Connah's Quay Cobra (Photo by Mark Ray)

The Deeside Ducks have announced the signing of Luke Wainwright to add to their roster for the forthcoming  2024/25 Laidler Division season.

The 22 year old defenceman is a former Deeside junior and was captain of both the Under 15 and Under 18 Dragons sides.

He has played over 70 competitive matches for Deeside Juniors and is currently a member of the Connah’s Quay Cobras recreational team that has won through to the Summer Cup Play offs.

Talking about joining the Ducks, Luke said:  “I'm very excited to be joining this hockey team for the next season and am looking forward to competing at a high level and improving as a player.”

Ducks Assistant Coach Stewart Cutting said of Wainwright: “Players like Luke are exactly what the Ducks team has been created for - junior players who aged out during covid and did not get the opportunity to develop their game in the adult leagues. Now he gets that opportunity.”

“The speed and skill he has when moving up the ice, and his work ethic and commitment when defending, make him an asset to the team. I'm looking forward to watching his development over the coming season.”

You can follow the progress of the new Deeside Ducks team as they prepare for their debut season in the NIHL Laidler Division on their Facebook page HERE