NIHL North News

NIHL North Bulletin

Photo Credit: IceHockeyMedia - Colin Lawson

Having already made substantial progress in assembling their roster this summer, Billingham Stars have today revealed the signing of Swedish imports Dennis Boström and Daniel Palmebjörk. Whilst right winger Boström featured in thirty one league games for the Stars last season to become Billingham’s highest points scorer with thirty three goals and seventeen assists, Palmebjörk joins the Teesside outfit after four seasons playing in Sweden’s Division One with Tegs SK. Accumulating eighty one points during his time at the club, Palmebjörk began his ice hockey career with IF Björklöven, progressing through the junior ranks to eventually play for the team at senior level. A move to Tegs SK in 2012 however, allowed Palmebjörk to demonstrate his ability in front of goal and it was here that he played some of his best senior ice hockey to become the team’s second highest points scorer last season. With Billingham’s offence becoming increasingly strong, it is clear that the Stars will be a force to be reckoned with as they take to the ice in September.

Photo Credit: IceHockeyMedia - Colin Lawson

Meanwhile, Whitley Warriors’ player-coach David Longstaff has secured the signings of defenceman Scott Cooper and netminder Jordan Boyle. Making the switch to the Hillheads outfit in 2014 after three seasons with Slough Jets, Cooper chipped in with one goal and four assists whilst icing on Whitley’s blue line. Continuing to contribute offensively where he could last season, Cooper’s campaign was unfortunately cut short when he suffered a serious injury which prevented the ‘D’ man from icing in Whitley’s remaining fixtures. His recovery ongoing, Cooper has re-signed for the club with hopes that he can train over the next few weeks in preparation for the season ahead. Also returning to Whitley Bay is shot stopper Jordan Boyle who linked up with the Warriors’ senior team last September after a short spell with Solway Sharks. Previously icing between the pipes for Newcastle Vipers’ Under 16 and Under 18 teams, Boyle also played in Whitley’s junior setup from 2010 to 2014. Usually featuring as a backup netminder, Boyle will be a valuable member of Whitley’s squad next season, particularly with the recent departure of Mark Turnbull who was often Longstaff’s second choice behind shot stopper Richie Lawson. 

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