Rob Eley, Eddie & Rich Slater back for 2013-14
12th May 2013
Rob Eley, Eddie & Rich Slater back for 2013-14
Popular trio re-sign for Motor Nation Solihull Barons
Rob Eley Eddie Slater Rich Slater (G. Rogers)

The Motor Nation Solihull Barons are delighted to announce the return of some of the Hobs Moat rink's most popular players, with the re-signing of forwards Rob Eley and Rich Slater, together with Rich's older brother, defenceman Eddie.

For any regulars at the Hobs Moat rink over the last few years, Rob Eley needs no introduction. The 6'3" forward has as strong a claim as any player to the title of Baron's legend. 32 year old Eley has spent the majority of his hockey career playing for Solihull with the exception of a couple of years playing at the wrong end of the A45 when the Blaze moved East.

Playing most of last year on the Barons second line and serving as an assistant Captain, Eley racked up a point a game in the 2012-13 season. Anyone who watched his exhuberant goal celebrations can ever doubt the Big E's commitment to the Barons - rumour has it his blood cells are embossed with the Fleur-de-Lis.

 

A big man, both on and off the ice, the impact of Eley on the dressing room is a major factor in Baron's head coach Darren Bellerby's decision to re-sign Eley and the popular forward will certainly be welcomed back by the Baron's faithful fans.

Like Eley, the Slater brothers are very much products of the Solihull system and have been fixtures in the Barons line-up over the last few years.

21 year old Rich Slater is a key signing for Bellerby. The Barons top points and goal scorer over the last two years, Rich averaged a goal and an assist per game in 2012-13 and with the likes of Josh Bruce joining him on the Barons first line a repeat of the same sort of point production will be hoped for in the new season.

 

Not surprisingly, the unassuming winger has found himself a big fans favourite and it was no surprise when Rich Slater was announced as Supporter's Player of the Year for 2012/13.

Rich is often backstopped on the blue line by older brother Eddie. The defenceman has continued to show himself a hard-working and safe pair of hands at both ends of the ice. Never afraid to block shots or work the puck in the corners, Eddie is equally adept at the well timed poke check or the set-up pass creating a goal scoring opportunity.

The return of all three Barons regulars will be a welcome sight to the hardcore fanbase of the Solihull squad. Stay tuned as coach Darren Bellerby builds his squad over the Summer with a mix of fan-favourites and a few new faces.

 

 
Original photography courtesy of Keith & Jenny Davies