Solway Sharks Juniors were delighted to hear that five of their players have been selected to play ice hockey for Scotland at various age groups, taking part in the National Conference competition in Sheffield in May. Bailey Thomson and Owen Rae will play with the Under 11s team, Scott Kirkpatrick will feature in the Under 13s team, and Lewis Houston and Liam Stenton will play as part of the U17s team, and they are all looking forward to showing what they can do on the big stage.
Solway coach Jamie Kerr shared his thoughts on the players, saying, “Owen and Bailey have progressed very quickly for such a young age which reflects their effort to practices, and they contribute to their team every game. Owen is a very reliable defender who adds different elements to his abilities every other week whilst Bailey is a whole-hearted dynamic forward who is able to contribute from back to front whilst creating and finishing goals. Scott has done exceptionally well to be included in a Scotland team for the first time at u13s level. This year, due to his need to train and play at u16s club level with players up to 3 years his senior, his all round game has developed at an accelerated level which should see him conditioned to be a solid defence man at u13s conference standard. I look forward to hearing the feedback on these 3 guys’ first crack at the conference weekend.”
“Lewis and Liam’s inclusion for the u17s comes as no surprise. Their hard work to develop as players on the ice as well as progressing their athleticism off the ice has seen them aid in the leading of their club and conference teams for a number of years, and has been underlined in their involvement in the GB programme in recent times. They stand up as role model junior players within our club with their work ethos, attitudes, and positive characteristic approaches.”
Martin Grubb, head coach of Solway Sharks and the Junior club said, “It is always a proud moment for any player to get the opportunity to represent Scotland and these players deserve it for the hard work, attitude and commitment they have shown throughout the season. We work hard with the players to allow them to showcase their abilities at the Conference tournament and I am confident they will do themselves and the club proud. We have had great success in developing players to play at the highest level and I am delighted that our player pathway continues to showcase the work everyone at the club does.”
Anyone interested in joining Solway Sharks Juniors should contact Dumfries Ice Bowl on 01387 251300 for details of Learn to Play sessions on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
