Another two return to Phoenix

Tuesday, 6th August 2013

J Davidson sponsored Manchester Phoenix are pleased to announce the return of two British players to the squad for the 2013-14 season.

Chelmsford-born forward Liam Chong, 21, has put pen to paper for the second time in Phoenix colours. After an injury hit first season where he first iced after Christmas for 23 games, Liam proved his worth to Phoenix with 6 goals and 5 assists.

Liam started his career with his hometown clubs, Chelmsford Chieftains and Chelmsford Tomahawks in 2006-06. He moved to Romford the following season and played for their Under 16 and 18 teams. Liam went over the pond in 2009 to attend Northwood School, returning the following year to play for Invicta Dynamos, where he scored 24 goals and 30 assists, and guested for Basingstoke Bison for 2 games. Bison, of the EPL, signed him up for the 2011-12 season and he scored 6 goals and 8 assists.

Liam has also played for Great Britain Juniors in the World Championships at Under 18 and 20 levels, achieving 2 bronze medals.

He signed for Manchester last season but appearances were curtailed until after Christmas due to a wrist injury. However, when he did make his appearance in Phoenix colours, he scored 6 goals and 5 assists.

Coach Hand commented: “Liam showed lots of promise in his half season last year and I am looking for this to continue. He shows good hands and a great turn of speed and I am looking forward to working with him.”

Phoenix are also able to announce that utility player Ben Wood has re-signed for another season, his 6th.

Ben’s versatility and ability to play both forward and in defence has now seen him ice over 200 games for the club. The Macclesfield-born 25 year old started at Deeside with the Flintshire Avalanche under 19 side in 2004 and played with them for three seasons before moving up to the Freeze, the Deeside senior team. 2008 saw him move to Manchester Phoenix with the ENL side, whilst guesting twice for the Phoenix Elite League team. When Phoenix moved to the English Premier League in 2009-10, Ben stayed and has been with the club ever since.

Coach Hand had this to say about Ben: “Ben improves season after season and with him being able to play in defence or up front, he is a good asset for the club. Last season was his best for the club and I have no doubt he will continue to improve."

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Another two return to Phoenix

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