Rihards Grigors carries the puck. Photo by IceHockeyMedia.
Whitley Warriors are delighted to announce the re-signing of Latvian defenceman Rihards Grigors.
31-year-old Grigors was already known to Warriors fans from his time at Murrayfield Racers in their NIHL North Cup-winning side of 2019-20 before joining Warriors mid-season 2021-22. He has played in leagues in Finland and Germany as well as his native Latvia. Most recently, he iced for Fife Flyers in the EIHL, having previously played for Milton Keynes Lightning and Edinburgh Capitals in the same league.
Since joining Warriors in November 2021, Rihards, whose younger brother Patriks also played in NIHL North 1 Moralee last season, has shown that his steadfast defensive play and ability to score goals makes him a formidable addition to the new season roster.
“I had offers to play closer to home that I considered but once I knew Tony and Willie are coming to Whitley I knew I wanted to come back,” Grigors said. “I had probably my best season with Tony as coach and I knew it was where I wanted to be. I am excited for the coming season and look forward to seeing what we can do.”
“I knew Rihards was planning to go elsewhere so he was one of the first calls I made,” Head Coach Tony Hand said. “It was clear that after chatting he was still keen to play in Whitley and I’m delighted that he has agreed to come. I’ve coached him before and I know what he brings to the team and believe he will be a real asset for us.”
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