Whitley Warriors new player/coach David Longstaff has started to build his roster for the 2015/16 campaign and it can be confirmed that forwards Shaun Kippin and Daniel Good along with netminder Richie Lawson will all be part of the Warriors set up for the coming campaign.
Shaun took a year out from hockey last season due to a shoulder injury however the popular front man is now back to full fitness and keen to resume his hockey career. Shaun last appeared for Warriors in the 2011/12 season when he captained the club before he moved to the north west and iced for the Deeside Dragons for 2 campaigns in the NIHL North’s Laidler Conference.
Both Richie and Daniel iced for Warriors last season, Richie made 15 appearances for Warriors last term and during his time out on the ice the former Newcastle Vipers goalie was able to save almost 90% of the shots that came his way and recorded a goals per game average of 4.07. Daniel was the only member of Warriors playing squad to appear in every competitive league game for the club last season netting 9 goals and assisting on a further 17 markers.
Daniel spoke about committing to the Warriors cause for another year.
“I’ve resigned simply because I enjoy playing. Last season was disappointing for more reasons than one so I want to play better and get more out of it this campaign.
“Lobby (David Longstaff) coming in brings a real energy and everyone will be massively motivated, I think it will be like a new team. With his experience and personality it’ll be really exciting to see how things will pan out with him as the coach. Also to have him as a player as well is such a bonus.
“I’m looking forward to pre season and to see which players have been brought in and re-signed.”
Shaun also shared his thoughts on his return to Hillheads.
“I’m delighted to be back, I had to take last season out due to shoulder surgery, but I always hoped to return and finish my career with the Warriors.
“I’m looking forward to getting back on the ice with the team and trying to win some silverware again, we have a great opportunity this season.
“I watched Lobby (David Longstaff) play as a youngster and always looked up to him as one of the best Brits in the country.
“Aims for this season are silverware, I think we will have one of the best teams in the league on paper but we need to prove that out on the ice.”
Warriors fans should keep their eyes on the clubs website, social media platforms and the local press as further signings are due to be released this coming weekend.