NIHL Signing News

NIHL News

Photo Credit: IceHockeyMedia - Colin Lawson

Billingham Stars have announced the re-signing of netminder Mark Watson who will now head into his sixth season with the Teesside club after starting out with Newcastle Vipers’ junior setup in 2006. Recording a save percentage of 88.6% last season, Watson mainly featured in the Stars’ cup games and was also called upon when shot stopper James Flavell suffered a back injury in the final Tees-Tyne derby of the season. As a result of this signing news, Billingham have now secured the services of their backup netminder as well as first choice Flavell, meaning the side once again have two goaltenders they can depend upon for the season ahead.

Meanwhile, Sheffield Steeldogs have completed their line-up with the re-signing of defenceman Tim Smith who has played for the club since September 2013 and as such, is now heading into his fifth season with the side. Taking on the role of alternate captain in his upcoming campaign, Smith will hope to put his experience to good use having previously played in the English National League and NIHL with Invicta Dynamos between 2007 and 2013. Tallying nineteen points in fifty two games last season, Smith works hard to assist his team mates in their offensive efforts whilst managing the Steeldogs’ blue line. A reliable, diligent leader, Smith is an excellent final addition to player-coach Ben Morgan’s squad.

Also, Telford Tigers have signed experienced right winger Joe Miller who returns to the side after dividing his time between the Shropshire outfit and Basingstoke Bison last season. Though Miller’s most recent campaign did not see him produce as many points as in previous seasons, the winger has demonstrated his ability in front of goal over the course of his career; he was able to tally twenty six goals and thirty five assists for Telford in his 2015-16 campaign. As Telford’s roster gradually begins to take shape, the addition of Miller means that the Tigers are now made up of a netminder, four defencemen and six forwards with more signings to follow soon.

Last but not least, Nottingham Lions have re-signed defenceman and captain Elliot Perrin as they prepare for their first season in the NIHL’s Division One. Last season, Perrin managed to chip in with sixteen points in twenty six games whilst leading the Lions from the blue line. A second excellent signing for the club, Perrin will hope to guide his team through some tough encounters next season as the clubs in Division One adjust to playing new and strengthened competition. 

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