Lions v Medway Bears 87/88 video clip

Lions’ 80s netminder, Bob Mitura, has uploaded an awesome 5-mins video clip of the Lions playing at home against Medway Bears.  It includes our legendary entrance and goal-scoring songs as well as a packed Clock End! I’ve put a link to it in the History section of the site, but here it is:

Ancient video clips now on YouTube

I’ve uploaded the ancient video clips from the Lions of the 90s onto YouTube. They were previously in the History section of the site in WMV format, but now they’re on YouTube instead. The Multimedia page of the History section has been updated with the embedded videos.

Mick Moorhouse has passed away

I’ve just been informed that coach Mick Moorhouse, father of “original days” defencemen Glen, has passed away. Mick was a cheerful chap, he featured in team photos back then and was always seen at the end of the game, carrying all the sticks across the ice. Our condolences go to Glen and his family.

Obituary: Vesa Pennanen

I am deeply shocked and saddened to have to announce that legendary Lions’ netminder, Vesa Pennanen (“Wes the Great”), passed away on Friday following a period of illness.

I’m sure many who followed the Lions in the 80s will remember Vesa’s incredible skill between the pipes. Together with Janne Lehti and Ari Arvila they formed the invincible trio of Flying Finns that won so much success for the team.

Back then, when I was just a kid, I was allowed to go into the changing rooms to get Vesa’s autograph. I still have the photo of me sitting on his knee and I was so chuffed to have spoken with him!

Vesa contacted me a few years ago and provided me with a wealth of information and photos from his time with the Lions. He was still involved in hockey, coaching youngsters.

Vesa is fondly remembered by anyone I’ve spoken to who ever met him. He leaves wife Marjo, son Nico and daughter Nina, who courageously let me know that her father has died.

Vesa was an incredible player, a wonderful person and a true hockey legend, a man who will never be forgotten. Our thoughts are with his family at this very sad time.