The Solent Devils are delighted to announce their inclusion in the upcoming return to play competition, as recently announced by the NIHL.
“After the most incredible twelve months, I am delighted that we will be able to get back on the ice in a competitive format, through the return to play programme,” states a jubilant Alex Murray. “While we know it has been difficult for everyone, the team has been working hard, both on and off the ice throughout the pandemic for the opportunity to return to play, which has now come.”
The competition the Devils will be competing in, will comprise of four other teams from NIHL South Division 1 and is due to commence the first weekend of March, in a round robin series. There will be many necessary precautions to ensure the safety of all players and staff, such as intensive testing, and the rinks being designated Covid-secure environments. While these games will be played behind closed doors, the Devils are currently reviewing options so the hockey starved Devils supporters – and fans for the travelling teams – can enjoy the return to play experience, as far as possible.
EIHA director Andrew Miller said,
“This represents the final part of this phase of our return to play plans for the NIHL and supports in the region of 390 athletes return to the ice this month. We continue to work with DCMS on returning more of our sport in the coming weeks as government restrictions allow. Our thanks for to all our clubs in the NIHL on working with us to make this possible and whilst this doesn’t include all teams, the joint working between all of our clubs has shown what is possible when we come together for the good of the sport.”
With the Solent Devils team having been announced over the summer of 2020 and training tentatively begun over winter, in hopefulness of getting back on the ice much sooner, the Solent Devils would like to express their gratitude to everyone, summed up buy Alex Murray,
“We would like to thank the EIHA, Planet Ice, our Supporters Club and our fans for all their support. We cannot wait to get back on the ice to represent our great club!”
For further details and announcements (including a few surprises), keep your eyes on the Solent Devils social media and website.
