Photo by Ice Hockey Media - Colin Lawson
Whitley Warriors are delighted to announce that Canadian import Andre Payette will once again be representing the club in the 2016/17 NIHL North Division 1 campaign.
Andre first linked up with the Warriors last summer and went onto have a superb debut season in NIHL hockey mainly operating as a defenceman while also demonstrating that he will stick up for himself and his teammates when required. Payette quickly became a fans favourite with the Warriors supporters both for his play out on the ice and his personality off the ice and his return to Hillheads for the coming season will no doubt excite the clubs followers during the close season.
Andre spoke about the factors that played a part in him returning to Whitley Bay for another season of hockey.
“It’s great to becoming back to Whitley Bay for another season, I’ve had superb support from the fans throughout my spell with Warriors and their backing has really played a part in my decision to return to Hillheads for the 2016/17 season. I’ve had a long career in hockey however I feel the Warriors fans are the best fans in the British game given the backing they give to their team. I’m partial to the north east having played in the region for the Newcastle Vipers a number of years ago and given my son lives in the region it works well for me.
“I’m taking it 1 day at a time, I’m not saying this is going to be my last season I’m just going to see how things progress. The hockey schools I’m involved in at the rink are proving to be a great success and I hope they will be a huge part of my future.
“I also feel the team has some unfinished business out on the ice after last season when we came 2nd in the league under the guidance of David Longstaff and Dave Holland who are a superb coaching team and it would be great to capture a trophy this time round.”
Andre went onto speak about ambitions for the coming season and also chatted about how he helps the younger players in the Warriors squad.
“I want us to be as good as we can be this coming season, a lot of the other teams will be improving so it will be tough and we’ll have to take it 1 game at a time but we’ll be looking to give everything we have every time we step out onto the ice in the maroon and gold.
“At this stage of my career I try and help the younger members of our dressing room as much as I can by showing them what’s needed while also still being a leader for the team.”
Andre then spoke about the enforcer role he can play for the team and mentioned another role he operates in for the club.
“I feel I am the toughest guy in the league and I hope I can prove that again this season. I have to admit I enjoy the physical side of the game. I’m sure 1 day a young guy will come along and get the better of me however I feel I am in the best shape I have been in for 10 years and I’m eager to get back out onto the ice and give my all for my team.
“As well as playing for Warriors I am involved in the commercial side of the organisation as well. If anyone would like to get involved with promoting their business on the advertising boards at the rink don’t hesitate in getting in touch with me my email address is apayette777@yahoo.co.uk and my mobile number is 07904008187. I’d just like to thank the fans once again for all their support and backing it really is appreciated. ”
Thanks to Andre for taking the time out to chat about the up coming season. Fans are advised that further signings are expected to be announced over the coming days and weeks as Whitley’s squad for the 2016/17 season is revealed.