News

Phoenix quiet on rumour mill

Tweet

Press reports from Scotland and North America regarding the possible movements of Tony Hand and Dennis Maxwell have sparked fresh speculation about who the Manchester Phoenix will shortly unveil as their new head coach.

Maxwell was formerly player coach of both the London Racers and Sheffield Steelers and more recently returned to North America to play for the Odessa Jackalopes. Maxwell has made no secret of his desire to return to the UK next season and would relish the opportunity to go up against former employers with a new team.

Tony Hand, arguably the best ever British born and trained ice hockey player and still a very potent offensive force on the ice, has player-coached the Edinburgh Capitals this past season and has apparently declared an intent to move away from his nations' capital for a "fresh challenge" elsewhere.

Hardly surprising then that both have been linked with the position currently vacant with the Phoenix who last week saw work begin on the new ice rink in the centre of Altrincham. With an announcement due shortly though, the club remain tight-lipped as to who they intend to bring in to lead their return to competitive play in the Elite Ice Hockey League.

Spokesperson Andy Costigan said, "It's no surprise that the rumour mill is linking us with both these guys. and more besides. Only on Tuesday, an official with another club in the league called me to congratulate us on appointing another different name. if his information was correct. I said the same to him as I'll say to those linking us with Maxy, Tony and host of others. We've made an offer to a candidate and we are working on making an announcement ahead of the Easter weekend."