News

Phoenix announce future talent spotting plans

Monday, 24th January 2005
Working closely with the British Inline Puck Hockey Association, the Manchester Phoenix are delighted to announce the first in a series of roller hockey clinics that the ice hockey club is sure will lead to more local players making their way in the game.
 
The Frederick Road Sports Hall of Salford University will stage the "Inline Hockey for Beginners" clinic on Sunday January 30th commencing at 9am with a full days programme of instruction and top-flight coaching from qualified coaches and Great Britain international roller hockey stars.
 
Phoenix Managing Director Neil Morris commented, "we formed a working liaison with BIHPA some months ago as we firmly believe that the large numbers of youngsters attracted into roller hockey can become the ice hockey players of the future. Currently, our code of hockey in dominated by imported players from North America and elsewhere, and there is no doubt that will continue to be the trend for some time to come. However, we are very keen to champion the development of local players and Malcolm Tilley of BIPHA is very keen to help us develop a genuine chain of progression from the roller code into the ice code."
 
 The Phoenix are in the advanced stages of confirming a site and construction plans for their new ice facility and the opportunity to launch their junior plans for the future - in conjunction with BIPHA - couldn't have come at a better time.
 
The Phoenix will have members of last years squad at the roller hockey clinic next Sunday and at future events to promote their aims and ideals for youngsters wanting to take up any form of hockey.
 
Morris concluded, "our future is actually on our own doorstep, what has been lacking is a real opportunity to open those doors and get the kids onto the ice. With the BIPHA clinics and our new facility ready for the autumn, we aim to offer youngsters that future."