Taylor returns for last dance.

Today the Solent Devils continue preparations for the start of the season by securing the signing of former Devil Aaron Taylor.

The British born goaltender was previously a part of the playoff winning Devils back in 2018. Speaking on his decision to return, Taylor said

“It feels a little surreal to be getting back on the ice after such a long absence but I’m excited – I feel like I have a lot to give both on and off the ice.

A number of factors helped my decision, you’re a long time retired, I’d like my kids to see me play before I do hang them up and I feel I have some close friends on the team that I will always try to help if asked to.”

Taylor continued by ensuring fans he’ll be giving everything to win games for the Devils

“I’m not new to a lot of the fans but I hope they know that I will do everything in my power to ensure we win as many games as possible.”

Speaking on his latest acquisition, head coach Alex Murray said

“Obviously it’s been a big question mark this session since the retirement of one of the greatest goalies to play at this level, however I feel the addition of Aaron will really help bolster my group. Aaron is mentally very strong and has a winning mentality. I have been really impressed with him this Summer and I’m delighted he has agreed to return’.

Taylor will wear the number #92 jersey and is looking for a sponsor, if you are interested in sponsoring him please get in touch with Kerry at devilssupporters@ouitlook.com

Bison’s Peacock returns to Solent

Today the Solent Devils are delighted to confirm they have signed British forward Jack Peacock from the Basingstoke Bison.  

Speaking on his return Peacock said

“It feels good to return, I’m excited to get going again with the boys and I feel like I left at the right time but now I also feel returning for the 23/24 season was the best choice to continue my development.”

In January Peacock left the Devils to pursue an opportunity with the Basingstoke Bison as he became the clubs first branded academy player. Speaking on the impact of playing at national, Peacock said

“I feel moving up into the national league helped me gain more experience and helped me to understand systems and how to correctly deal with most situations on the ice. Which in turn I feel has benefitted my all-round game and upped the level of hockey I can bring back into Solent”

Peacock who iced 27 times for the Bison last season still thinks he has more to learn, when he stated

“My goals are to put what I’ve learnt into practice and become a key member of the team. I’m also still learning so I will very much be continuing my development to improve my all-round game as a forward.”

Speaking on the return of Peacock, head coach Alex Murray spoke of the clubs identify

 “The philosophy and identify of our club have not changed since I took charge. We want to be a place where young players can come, learn, and develop as well as have an opportunity at senior hockey. I want to progress these players as far as I can, which is why I was pleased to see Jack get a chance at national last year. He now returns with a little more experience which I hope will help him compete for a regular spot with the us, whilst contributing offensively”.

Peacock will wear #51 and will be sponsored by Towergate for the upcoming season.

Copper continues with Solent

The Solent Devils continue their preparations for the 2023-24 season with the re-signing of experienced forward Scott Cooper.

 The Geordie who joined from Billingham in 2019 said

“It feels great to be back with the Devils for another season. I’m really looking forward to getting started in the next month or so, we have some new faces on the team which is exciting and shows the upwards trajectory of the club that we can still attract players from a higher level. We have some unfinished business from falling just short at the playoff weekend.”

With several retirements, Cooper who is 32 in November spoke of the additional responsibilities he will have

“Being considered now as one of the older heads on the team, I hope to bring a sense of calmness to the younger players on the team when they are maybe being put in situations that they are not used to. Additionally, I will look to offer help and guide where I can. I will continue the family mentality we have in the dressing room even with some big characters leaving.”

The versatile journeyman, has spoken of his goals ahead of the new season

“My personal goals for the season are to simply help the team anyway I can and look to solidify my centre position where we can build some chemistry on every line without relying too much on the top guys on the team.”

Speaking on his latest signing, Murray said Coopers versatility and character are key components

“Scotty has such a great mix of personality and ability to really help our team’s depth. He can play across the forward positions as well as defence and has begun to develop into a reliable PK player. I’m looking at Scotty to really support the new boys joining and continue to step up when called upon.”

Scott who will wear the #24 jersey will be sponsored by Fasteners Plus for the 2023-23 season with the Devils

British forward Evans re-signs for Solent

The signings for Solent continue as the Devils confirm Oscar Evans is retained for the 2023-24 season.

Evans returns for his 3rd full season with Solent having originally joined from the Basingstoke Bison in 2021.

Speaking on his return, Evans had this to say

“It feels great to be back with the Devils I really feel at home here now and I’m excited to get going again.”

After reaching the 10-goal mark last season, Evans has set his sights on contributing more for the team

“My aim this year is to make more goal contributions for my team and hopefully go all the way this year.”

Head Coach Alex Murray also said it’s an important season for Evans

 “I was impressed at Oscar’s progression last season, which saw him move up the line up regularly. His effort was rewarded with a good return in goals last season, but similar to others, I am hoping for a breakout year for Oscar as he aims to increase his role within the team.”

Oscar will be sponsored by The Riff Raff and will continue to wear the #47 jersey.

Prospect Wedge retained by Solent

Charlie Wedge is the latest player to return to Solent after signing a two-way deal with the NIHL 2 Devils.

Speaking on his return, the 20-year-old said

“It was an easy choice for me to sign for another season with such a great team. Playing in NIHL 1 & 2 is a great opportunity to develop and become the best player I can be.”

The speedy winger amassed 43 points in 43 games across both teams last season and is looking to push on with his development

“Next season I’d like to contribute more for the team and hopefully bring home some trophies!”

Speaking on his latest signing, head coach Alex Murray said

“Charlie is one of our most exciting prospects. After a successful transition period last year, we are expecting him to have a big impact in South 1.”

Wedge will continue to wear the #22 jersey and will be sponsored by 2Teck.