Published: Monday, 1st September, 2008 10:00
Hutchins completes Bicknell's squad
By Charles Watts
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BRACKNELL Bees have finally announced the signing of long term target Jeff Hutchins.
The Canadian forward, who has spent the last three seasons playing in the Elite League, fills the last remaining import spot in Adam Bicknell’s squad.
During his spell in the Elite League, Hutchins played for Coventry Blaze, Belfast Giants and Newcastle Vipers and he scored 65 goals as well as picking up 72 assists.
Before making his move to the UK, the 30-year-old played in both the American Hockey League and East Coast Hockey League, where he was part of the 2002/03 South West Division Championship winning Mississippi Sea Wolves.
Bees’ Head Coach Adam Bicknell said: “Jeff joins after three successful seasons playing in the top league in our country. He is a proven goal scorer and exactly the type of power forward I was looking to lead our offence this year.
“Jeff has put respectable numbers up in the Elite league and with his eye for goal and no nonsense style, he is certain to make an instant impact in the EPL this year.”
“I had heard that Jeff was interested about our league with the possibility of working in London and also playing. Having met with Jeff several times it is clear that he is passionate about the game and was keen to join a title challenging team.
"Jeff had spoken to all of the local clubs and it was great to get his signature.”
Bicknell added: “He has been skating with us for the last couple of weeks and he has fitted right in. Jeff is an experienced player and it is great to have a player of his calibre wearing a Bees shirt this season.”
“Jeff completes our line up for the forthcoming season. I’m really pleased with the players I have recruited and they give us real flexibility in line selections. Every player I have signed is a team player and I believe team strength is derived from unity.
“When a team plays for each other the performances are always committed and I expect our games to be far more entertaining this year.”
* Meanwhile the Bees will be holding a special pre-season meet the players BBQ at the Plough & Harrow pub on Saturday 13th September.
It will begin at 6pm and will also feature live music throughout the night. The entire squad will be there and the club will be unveiling its shirt for the 2008/09.
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