| 3 More Return for the 2011/2012 Season ……….
Solihull Barons Head Coach Darren Bellerby is pleased to announce the return of fans’ favourites Rob Perks, Luke Thomas & young up and coming defenseman, Luke Smith.
On retaining the services of another three returnees from last year’s league winning squad, coach Bellerby commented on his latest trio:
“Retaining Luke and Rob is a boost for the Barons again for 2011/2012. The long serving stalwarts bring a bit of everything to the table and this is why I have retained their services for this season.”
“Perksy brings endless energy and may not be the most technically gifted player in the squad but what Rob brings is hard work and determination. In Perksy I know that I can put him out in any situation and he will cause opposing teams headaches. He is like the Pit-bull of our team, always champing at the bit.”
“Luke Thomas is another player that has been with the team for a few seasons now and adds to the size and physical edge I’m looking for this season. Luke is a hard nosed defensemen whose number one priority is to look after his team mates. Luke has his critics from players and coaches around the league but I would bet your bottom dollar teams would love a player of his nature in their squad. What Luke brings is size and a physical presence in our defensive zone, something that is key to any defensive unit.”
Last of the returning trio is young defenseman Luke Smith:
“Luke has been included in this year’s squad straight out of his last year of Solihull Juniors. I’m excited to see Luke excel this season” stated Bellerby, “With limited ice time in the Barons squad last year due to the competitiveness of roster spots and U18 commitments for Luke he still took every opportunity when on the ice and is eager for more. In the off season I have been speaking with a lot of my senior defensemen who have all given me good reports on Luke working hard at summer training to progress his game and asking for help with certain area’s of his technique, something that is rare in a guy of his age. At the same time this shows to me he wants to establish himself as a full time senior player. At 6ft 2in, Smithy certainly has size on his side but what I like about Luke is his composure and first pass. I think for Luke this will be his breakout year with the Barons and I’m happy that he has chosen to stay with the team and is pushing for a regular spot in defence.”
With the Barons squad now at eighteen (11 Forwards & 7 Defensemen) there are a few roster spots available but by no means have the Barons stopped their signing’s with further big names to be announced shortly.
(Adz Andrews & Darren Bellerby)
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