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Kiesman injury forces change of plan

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Manchester Phoenix hopes of including Mike Kiesman in their playing plans this season have been dashed by a close-season injury.

Kiesman, who coach Tony Hand was delighted to have signed, suffered torn Anterior Cruciate ligaments just days before leaving Canada to join the assembling Phoenix squad in Manchester. Hand noted, "Mike was a player I very much wanted to sign and I knew he would play a major part in our team this season. Sadly, that won't be the case now, at least not in a playing capacity."

The Phoenix coach added, "When Mike called me, he was really upset at the thought of letting everyone down and asked if there was any way he could come and still play a part in what we're trying to build in Manchester. Neil Morris and I discussed what could be done and with the flights already booked, Neil showed exactly what this club is all about by agreeing to Mike coming."

Morris remarked, "It's just another little hurdle we've had to overcome and just like the others, we'll adapt and get on with the job. In terms of the team, we've added David Vychodil to replace Mike on the playing roster so; the strength of the team is unaffected. Tony spoke very highly of Mikes' character and so we decided it was right to bring him in as he can certainly play take an unofficial role not only around the team as a non-playing member of the squad but also as an off-ice ambassador for the club in public relations and supporters club events."

Mike Kiesman commented, "to sustain the injury was bad enough, to be told I would miss the season was even worse as I know what Tony is trying to build here. I just wanted to try and play my part and it's a tremendous gesture on behalf of the club to bring me in and I'll do whatever I can to help out and repay the superb welcome I've been given here already. It would have been very easy for the club to say no to me, they haven't and for that I'm extremely grateful, it shows what a class act this club is going to be."