First day of junior trials proves successful

Sunday, 18th June 2006

Around sixty young hockey players turned out for the first day of Phoenix Junior Trials at the Deeside Ice Rink on Saturday 17th June, all keen to try to secure a place in the new Manchester Phoenix Junior Development system. The trials took place under the watchful gaze of Phoenix Head Coach Tony Hand and Phoenix Managing Director Neil Morris, both of whom had come along to give the event and the players their support.

Running things on the ice were a selection of the prospective coaching staff, and off the ice the day was coordinated by the Chairman of the Phoenix Junior Development System, Paul Brown.

"It's all about maximum inclusion," says the Chairman. "It's about trying to get as many of these players involved in the Junior Development System as possible. Whether in age group League squads or in development teams, we aim to have as many of these kids as possible taking part."

The Chairman went on to comment on the planned form and function of the Junior Development System. "Our plan is to run a three level system, with players going into either League, Challenge or Training groups. The most highly skilled players will be put into the League teams and will take part in their age goup's League competition. We expect to ice League teams at U14, U16 and U19 levels in our first season. Challenge teams are where we develop players into league level players, and for those who are looking to build their confidence and skills, there are the Training teams. If we can get you playing, we will!"

The players were split down into their respective age groups for the trials, before being put through their paces with a variety of drills and exercises designed to evaluate their skating and hockey abilities.

Overseeing the action from in the stands, Phoenix Coach Tony Hand was very enthusiatic about the event. "I think this kind of system is very important," says Coach Hand. "The purpose of such a system is that the Phoenix will be able to produce our own players in seasons to come. It's a boost for the city, for the kids, and for the community. Ice hockey is a great sport and there's going to be a great facility for us all to play hockey in."

Tony had travelled down from his home in Edinburgh on his day off to be at the trials. "I came down to watch our prospective junior players, and I came down to meet the new coaches, and I'm very impressed with them. This kind of event is a start, this is a real step in the right direction, and I'm glad to be a part of it."

Phoenix MD Neil Morris was keen to be in attendance and to lend his support to the event. "I think it's important for the club to be seen to be here in active support of this event, and not just organising and endorsing it," says the MD. "I feel that if I can't make the effort to be here then I can't expect anyone else to! But I'm confident that the system will be a success, it's a great sport and these kids just love to play, so we're gonna help them as best we can!"

Also watching the trials from the stands was new Phoenix netminder Matty Compton, who is relishing the prospect of seeing the completion of the new Altrincham rink and the commencement of the Junior Development System. "A great facility is always a good starting point for kids, and an event like this gives them a step up the ladder," says the netminder. "I started in the junior system here at Deeside, and it's been a real boost to me as a hockey player. I'm looking forward to seeing the next generation of hockey players develop their skills through the Phoenix system."

The next Trials event will take place on Saturday 1st July at the Deeside rink.

by Richard Allan

First day of junior trials proves successful

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