Whitley Warriors are delighted to announce the re-signing of talented 19-year-old netminder Ryan Wardell.
Wardell is a product of Billingham’s junior system, making his debut in the Under 15s in 2016 alongside many of the Stars’ current senior team. He has spent most of his career at Billingham, with loan spells at Kingston Sharks and Raiders at Under 18 level. He spent some time at Bradford Bulldogs, recording one shut out in his 13 games, before making the move to Whitley Bay last season and impressing both fans and coaches. Always looking to gain experience, Ryan also guested for Leeds Knights in the NIHL National League and Cardiff Devils in the EIHL last season.
Wardell picked up the Young Player of the Year award at the Presentation Night in April and is looking forward to another season in the Maroon and Gold. “I really enjoyed my first year with the Warriors,” he told us. “It’s a great room and the lads work hard for each other, and I don’t see why this group can’t be challenging for silverware this year.”
“I brought Ryan in as a backup last season but he has some excellent games for us and held his own,” said Head Coach Tony Hand. “He’s still learning and I want to see him improve every season and fight to make the starting position his own.”
Welcome back Ryan!