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Power forward Payette - a two in one boost for Phoenix

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In signing left winger Andre Payette, Manchester Phoenix player/coach Tony Hand has signed a true multi-facet power forward – a fearsome competitor and enforcer combined with a career history regularly festooned with silverware success.

“I like to think I’ve more to my game than just being the physical presence and I think my track record of success backs that up,” commented the amiable Canadian from his home in Ontario. “I won a Calder Cup with the Philadelphia Phantoms in the American Hockey League and since arriving in the UK in 2004, I’ve won a Challenge Cup, an Elite League title and two Playoff Championships, so I know what it takes to win trophies, and I’m determined to win more.”

Andre Payette, a 1994 draft pick of the Philadelphia Flyers, is an instantly recognizable figure on the ice, standing 6ft 2ins, tipping the scales to around the 230lb mark and not averse to sporting the odd striking coiffeur, the left shot left winger is a no-nonsense player who takes his game seriously. No stranger to penalty boxes with over 1500 penalty minutes since coming to the UK, Andre has also posted 54 goals and 73 assists in spells with the Coventry Blaze and Newcastle Vipers.

“Joining the Phoenix is another great challenge for me at this stage in my career, I’ve always tried to contribute to every club I’ve played for and having talked at length with Tony (Hand), I’m looking forward to an exciting season in Manchester. I spoke with Derek Campbell a few days ago and he spoke really well of his time with the Phoenix.”

A family man with his English wife Heidi and two step-children Luke and Meriden resident on Tyneside, Andre is keen to pass on his experience to the new Phoenix squad.

“I’ve looked at the squad Tony has signed so far and working with younger guys is something I like to do. They need experienced players to help them along and I pride myself on being a good team guy and hopefully someone they’ll look to for encouragement and support. For sure, if any of them get into any trouble, I’ll be there for them,” added the 33-year old.

Speaking about the capture of Payette, Phoenix player-coach Tony Hand remarked, “I’ve no doubt this signing will be a big surprise to some, but for me, Andre ticks a lot of boxes. He’s a big, physical presence, a true power-forward who can score goals, can play a number of positions and he brings a winners experience to the room. He’ll give the team the toughness if it’s needed, but I think his qualities of leadership in the room will be an even bigger asset to our club this season, I’m very pleased to have brought him to Manchester.”

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• Profile for Andre Payette