Raiders are pleased to welcome back the experienced and shrewd head of #57 Ashley Jackson for the forthcoming season after his injury shortened 22-23 season.
Last season Ash made 29 appearances for the Raiders scoring 12 goals and 15 assists for a total of 27 points, alongside his considerable field hockey commitments, on at least one occasion playing a game on ice and grass in the same day!
In total Ash has made 52 appearances for the Raiders, averaging just over a point a game with 24 goals and 30 assists for 54 points.
Ash’s no nonsense style is definitely reflected in his announcement quotes. 🙂
” I’m just looking forward to getting back with the boys and contributing however I can both in the room and on the ice.”
Sean Easton didn’t hesitate to re-sign Jackson.
“Ash suffered a injury back end of last season which meant his season ended early. But when he is available (accounting for his full time work) he again will add experience and leadership. He has a calm head on the ice which is calming for all and will make good decisions and be solid all over the ice.“
#55 Sean Barry also makes a welcome return to Sapphire Ice for a seventh season on the Raiders blue line.
Though originally signed as injury cover last season, Sean stepped up admirably and his level of performance meant he made 43 appearances , scoring two goals and eight assists for ten points.
In total , Sean has made 255 appearances (ranked 22nd overall) and has scored 16 goals and 84 assists for 100 points in all competitions ( ranked 57th overall). His 100th point coming with an assist on the Matt Gomercic goal that started the Raiders comeback in the last eight minutes at Peterborough Phantoms in the Play Offs.
Sean is another player that enjoyed his time with the Raiders last season.
“I can’t wait to be back with the boys in September especially after the success we had getting to the play-off final. I dont believe many thought we would get to the Coventry weekend let alone the final.
“Sean (Easton) has clearly added to the squad which will improve us and hopefully come the end of the season we will be in the running for some silverware.”
Coach Easton was impressed at the way Barry dropped into the team seamlessly:-
“Barry came in a little later last season but stepped straight into the thick of it looking like he hadn’t missed a beat. Barry likes to play more offensive style of d grabbing some late equalisers last term.”
Welcome back Ashley and Sean as very valued parts of Raiders extending bench for the season ahead.
