Ben Richards. Photo by Ice Hockey Media - Colin Lawson
Whitley Warriors are pleased to announce that blue liners Dan Pye and Liam Smedley as well as forward Ben Richards will all be part of the clubs roster for the 2016/17 season under the guidance of the Whitley coaching staff.
Dan Pye joined Warriors in the summer of 2014 and soon established himself as one of the most imposing d men in NIHL North. Dan logged a lot of minutes in defence for Whitley last season, often sharing his experience out on the ice with the younger members of Warriors roster. Dan remaining at Hillheads is great news for the club as his solidity in defence undoubtedly strengthens the core of Whitley’s squad.
Young d man Liam Smedley will also be part of the Warriors squad next season, the teenager has shown his versatility by operating in both forward and defensive positions since he first appeared in senior hockey. Liam will no doubt be aiming to pick up significant ice time this coming season while also trying to get as many points as possible during his time out on the ice.
It has also been confirmed that the young up and coming winger Ben Richards will also remain part of the Warriors camp next season. Despite only being 19 this coming season will be Ben’s fifth season in the maroon and gold of the Warriors. Ben’s most successful season statistically was back in 2013/14 when he picked up 15 points over the course of the regular season. Ben missed part of last season due to injury but he was still able to pick up 13 points in the 17 games he iced in making him a genuine offensive threat to opposition defences.