I think credit should be given to netminder Andrew Boot. Andrew, along with the rest of the team, went through some difficult times this season and sometimes faced a ridiculous number of shots. Andrew turned out to be the ONLY member of the squad who turned up to play EVERY single game, regardless of location or circumstances, and for that level of commitment he should be commended.
Category: Players
New signing
We are pleased to announce that the Lions have made a new signing in the shape of Nathan Higgins, a forward of formidable size.
Rob’s a Dad!
Congratulations from everyone at Lee Valley to Rob “Chicken” Courtman and his girlfriend, Raina, on the birth of their little girl, Lily.
Player news
The Lions welcome new forward, Luke Kirkland, to the squad. If we’re lucky he may be able to play for us this weekend. Rob Courtman is back from injury while Michael Ranby should also be back soon. Scott Beeson has returned to the fold but is out for a couple of weeks due to a nasty injury to his hand (I saw the photo :-o)
Goodbye and good luck, George
I’m very sorry to have to announce netminder George Alley’s (hopefully temporary) retirement from the Lions and hockey in general. George has been a wonderful member of our team, he’s always been reliable and helpful and “the man in the know.” We’ll all miss you, George, and wish you lots of luck with your studies. Here’s his message to everyone:
“It is with deep regret that I announce my immediate departure from the Lions this week. I was going to hold this until after Sundays match in Swindon, but an injury to my glove hand means I won’t be travel so I have decided to bring this forward now.
Unfortunately University has taken over my life and as I’ve already explained to Coach Smolenko, I can’t commit to the team if my heart’s not 100% in it. This isn’t a knee jerk reaction, this has been thought about over and over for the last month or so. I haven’t wanted to be at training, games or indeed at my own home at points because of the impact my new life in Cambridge has had on me and it’s not fair on the team when someone supposed to be playing an important role for the squad keeps showing up with a frown because he doesn’t want to be anywhere near the rink.
Mercifully Coach Smolenko sympathises that I need to take some time out of the sport, how long for I’m not entirely certain but Andrew Boot who has already put in a stellar effort so far this campaign will no doubt in my eyes keep up the good work and won’t let you down.
My particular thanks go out to my brother Nick, Sue and Paul Ranby, coach Smolenko and the rest of the Lions for their continued support through was has been a very difficult time for the club and myself. Especially after my shameful exit in the Isle of Wight, for that I am eternally grateful.
But for now it’s adios and I wish the club and supporters nothing but the best of luck for the rest of the season.
All the best
George Alley”