ICE HOCKEY: Oxford City Stars all geared up for off
By Mark Edwards Sports Editor. Call me on 01865 425451
Josh Florey celebrates an Oxford City Stars goal with Joe Edwards in March 2018. The duo will be reunited and back in the yellow and blue kit when the new season gets under way tomorrowPicture: Paul Foster
Oxford City Stars are raring to go for their new season after a summer of change.
A home match against Bracknell Hornets at Oxpens tomorrow night (6.15) will be their first of the English National League South Division 1 campaign.
At the end of last season, Greig Box Turnbull and Jo Mundy took over Stars and set it up as a not-for-profit community club.
They moved quickly to appoint Simon Anderson as head coach, overseeing both the first team the junior set-up, assisted by Darren Elliott who retired from playing in the summer.
Anderson retained the core group of local players, including Josh Oliver, the Florey brothers, Dax Hedges, Mike Whillock and Joe Edwards, who returned after a spell at MK Thunder.
He further strengthening the squad signing eight new players including imports Ryan Widmar and Ruslan Cernych, plus the Shone brothers from Bristol Pitbulls.
Stars will play in yellow and blue again following a fans' vote and the club is appealing for people to back them in numbers.
"There are so many positives at the club," said Box Turnbull.
"It's huge that we're back in Division 1. It will be a big challenge, but it's important Oxford hosts quality ice hockey.
"Hopefully the brilliant Oxfordshire public will get behind the club and come and support the team.
"Everyone at the club is so proud to represent Oxfordshire and our great city."
Anderson is hoping to get the new season off to a winning start, but will not be taking tomorrow's opponents lightly.
"Bracknell are a huge threat," he said.
"Looking at their roster, they're obviously one of the big budget teams and have a lot of talent and will be challenging for the title.
"They have a few ex-Stars in the tier line up and I am sure it will be a great game.
"Hopefully we can start the season well and with the team giving their all and the crowds behind us we can give anyone a game."
Box Turnbull added: "It's been a really busy summer on all fronts.
"What's critical is the club becomes sustainable, so it is here for generations to come.
"To do that we're being sensible on cost and working hard to improve commercial revenue.
"It is a real challenge, but we're trying to re-connect the club with the county.
"Seeing the team in yellow and blue at the weekend felt like a great step forward and there was a real buzz around the rink."
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