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Brebant targets Parrish

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Manchester Phoenix head coach Rick Brebant has confirmed this weekend that he has opened contract negotiations with American defenceman Dwight Parrish.

Speaking from the US Brebant advised, "I got to talk with Dwight shortly before I left for North America and we agreed to talk again as soon as I got home. We've now spoken in more detail and I'm very hopeful that Dwight will agree to become a Phoenix signing in the near future.

Parrish, currently working at hockey schools in upstate Michigan, first came to the UK three seasons ago with Cardiff before coming to Manchester and Brebant advised, "He's a very solid blueliner with a good shot and importantly, he knows when to and when not to join the rush. I see him becoming a key component of our defence if we can agree terms."

Advised of the latest developments surrounding the Elite League affiliation to the English Ice Hockey Association, Brebant commented, “This is a positive step forward. The Elite teams forging links with the clubs in the English Premier League will aid the progression of younger British players to a higher level. If the enthusiasm of the local players we have trialed is replicated around the country, the future looks very bright.”

Having confirmed that eight local players have been selected for further consideration for his Phoenix roster, Brebant also advised that two of the senior former Altrincham Aces players will become involved in the programme. “Simon Mills and Nick Crawley have good experience that can be used to good effect in encouraging the younger players. The local players will work on a summer training regimen and the final selection process won’t take place until late August. It’s a tough programme, but if they buy into it they will become better hockey players and all-round better athletes too.”