Jamie Tinsley will captain the Whitley Warriors during the NIHL North 2014/15 season. It has also been confirmed that veteran blue liner Paul Matthews and summer signing Dean Holland will be Warriors alternate/assistant captains for the coming campaign.
Warriors new captain has been on the Whitley roster for 3 seasons now scoring over 40 goals during his time at Hillheads and was the clubs assistant captain for the last 2 terms. Jamie’s first game as Whitley skipper looks set to be the away Challenge game against the Kirkcaldy Kestrels in Scotland at the end of August with his first home game as captain coming the weekend after when Warriors face the Aberdeen Lynx on home ice on Sunday the 31st August.
Warriors Head Coach Simon Leach spoke about his captaincy choices for the 2014/15 campaign and also paid tribute to the clubs former skipper.
“Jamie (Tinsley) is a natural leader who is a very popular and respected player within the dressing room. He leads by example every time he steps on the ice whether it be in a training session or in a game. He will be an excellent role model for the younger guys to look up too, he will certainly drive the team on next season.
“Again like Jamie, Paul (Matthews) leads by example at all times. He has vast experience within the game, great professionalism and a positive attitude towards the game. His experience will once again be invaluable to all of those around him.
“Dean (Holland) has gained great experience from his time in Guildford playing alongside many top quality players in the English Premier League. He has learnt what it takes to win trophies and is another player who comes to play every night and we will be looking to him to bring those qualities to the Warriors shirt.
“The club would like to say a huge thank you to DJ Good who has captained the side over the past 2 seasons and done a very good job during this time.”
Warriors new club captain Jamie Tinsley also shared his thoughts on being appointed Whitley skipper.
“I’m looking forward to leading the Warriors. I’ll approach the role how I’ve approached every season making sure we work well as a team to get the most out of every game. In the past I have enjoyed captaining the Great Britain University side.”
Jamie’s assistant captains Dean Holland and Paul Matthews also spoke about their new role.
D.H “It’s an honour our Head Coach Simon Leach considered me for the role and I’m hopeful I’ll be able to bring some experience and know how to the team.”
P.M “I think any current player asked to be a captain/alternate captain of their team will find it hard to refuse. I obviously accepted the offer and I am looking forward to the new season ahead.”
Warriors fans are reminded to keep a close eye on the clubs website as a new Whitley signing will be unveiled this Friday.