Defence is strengthened as Harley returns

Harry Harley returning for the 2024-25 season

Whitley Warriors are delighted to announce the re-signing of experienced defenceman Harry Harley.

Having broken through the junior ranks at Hillheads, Harley made his senior debut for Whitley Warriors in their 2011-12 season in the English National League, playing 21 league games in which he tallied 6 goals and 9 assists, whilst also enjoying ice time with the Braves and lacing up his skates for GB’s Under 18s outfit at the World Junior Championships where he managed 1 goal and 2 assists in 5 games. Whilst similarly dividing his ice time in the season that followed, Harley also made his EPL debut with Peterborough Phantoms and then signed for the outfit in 2013, featuring in 36 games that season.

A return to Hillheads followed in his 2014-15 campaign and Harley’s attacking play from the blue line continued to impress as he went on to achieve the most goals by a defenceman in NIHL 1 North two seasons later. Harley also played a brief spell with Hull Pirates in his 2018-19 season, collecting 5 points in 8 league games. He has since continued to lead the Warriors’ defence with his solid ability and will do so again in his thirteenth season in Maroon and Gold.

“I’m happy to be coming back for another season,” 29-year-old Harley said. “I’m excited to play In front of our fans again and hopefully we can build on last year.”

“I picked Harry as my player of the season and for good reason,” said Head Coach Tony Hand. “Harry is a very consistent player that puts up points from the blue line while keeping it tight at the back.”

Welcome back Harry!