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The off-ice report

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Belfast Giants defenceman Jason Bowen has announced his retirement from the sport, after spending five seasons in two stints with the Northern Irish club.  In a statement issued by the Giants, General Manager John Elliott pays tribute to the Canadian blueliner, saying "Jason has been a committed member of the Giants team for several years and delivered many fine performances for very appreciative fans."  Also leaving the Giants is Shane Johnson, who has signed with Slough Jets for the forthcoming season.

Basingstoke Bison have added to their defensive roster with the signing of Mark DeSantis, taking him from Amarillo Gorillas in the CHL.  The former CHL All-Star served as captain with the Gorillas, racking up 45 points in 62 games with 163 PIMs last season.  "I am very excited about joining Basingstoke," says DeSantis, "I've had a good career based in the United States, but I am really looking forward to a new challenge and hopefully winning an Elite League championship in Basingstoke."

Returning to the Bison for the forthcoming season is Ryan O'Keefe, who recorded 16 points and 158 PIMs in 49 games last season.  Currently keeping match fit with a summer season with Sydney Bears, O'Keefe will be returning for his second season with the Herd, much to the delight of Bison Coach Doug Sheppard. "I thought Ryan was the most consistent defenceman we had last season," says Coach Sheppard, "and I am very excited Ryan is going to be joining us for another season.  I thought Ryan was one of the hardest hitting defenceman in the league last year and I look for him to continue his physical play for the upcoming season."

British netminder Stephen Murphy will be returning to these shores to ice with Edinburgh Capitals as a replacement for Martin Kucera, who has moved on to Sports Club Miercurea Ciuc.  Murphy, a former netminder with Fife, Dundee and Bracknell, spent last season in Sweden icing for IFK Arboga IK.

Returning to the Caps this season will be former Ayr Scottish Eagles forward Dino Bauba, with the Lithuanian coming back for a third consecutive season with the Edinburgh team.

Coventry Blaze have added some pedigree to their team with the signing of former New York Rangers defenceman Rumun Ndur.  The Nigerian-born blueliner has also iced for Buffalo Sabres and Atlanta Thrashers in the NHL, as well as for teams such as Norfolk Admirals, Orlando Solar Bears and recently Kalamazoo Wings in the UHL.  Blaze Coach Paul Thompson says "I was looking for a big, tough defenceman and Rumun had been brought to my attention a couple of years ago and when I heard he was a free agent I got in touch straight away. I didn't want anyone to be pushed around this year and have gone for some players with a solid side to their game. Rumun will look after himself and his team-mates."

Sheffield Steelers have announced the signing of Canadian defenceman Ian Manzano, signing him from Johnstown Chiefs in the ECHL.  Coach Dave Matsos says "From the day I took this job, Ian was the first guy recommended to me.  I think we are not only getting a first class and experienced player but we are also getting a first class person who will ensure that the dressing room is a great place to be."

Nottingham Panthers have picked up forward Sean McAslan, taking the Canadian from Milwaukee Admirals in the AHL where he iced in the play offs after spending the season with Long Beach Ice Dogs in the ECHL.  Panthers Coach Mike Ellis sees the value in the signing, saying "I am not a big believer in stars on our team, we're all working together, but he is definitely going to be one of our front runners and one of our top players and a guy we'll be looking to do damage in the big games.  I'm really excited to have him on our team and he's thrilled to be with us."

The Panthers have also announced the signing of defenceman Mike Rees, who iced in the 2004-05 season with Bracknell Bees and last season with Corpus Christie Rayz in the CHL.  "Mike is a solid competitor who played for me in Bracknell two seasons ago where he proved to be one of the most influential guys on my team," says Coach Ellis.  "He is a successful defenceman who brings leadership and experience.  He was captian in Bracknell for two championships.  Mike's a great team character and another guy who fits the team ethic we are trying to build in Nottingham."

Newcastle Vipers have signed British defenceman Richie Thornton, reclaiming him back to the Vipers after seasons away with Billingham Bombers and Hull Stingrays.  Vipers Coach Rob Wilson says "I'm pleased that Richie has accepted the offer to come back to Newcastle.  He is a very accomplished defenceman and will bring depth to our blueline."

Newcastle will, however, be without the services of Simon Leach, who has announced his decision to leave the club after four seasons.  His destination is currently not yet known.

by Richard Allan