Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Lightning strikes in Coatbridge
Lanarkshire club are making big strides
Lanarkshire Lightning junior ice hockey club are urging youngsters to get their skates on and try out the sport.
The club’s profile has been experiencing a rapid rise since their inception two years ago and they are inviting kids to be a part of an exciting new season.
The Lightning play their games at the Time Capsule in Coatbridge but harness strong connections with Scottish National League side Paisley Pirates.
Connections so strong that the Lightning’s two teams, their under10s and under-12s, are coached by three members of the senior Pirates squad, including Colin McMillan.
Colin is proud of Lanarkshire’s achievements so far but is hoping the progress continues.
He told the Advertiser: “The kids have done remarkably well in a very short space of time.
“It was tough at the start as we were playing matches against more established sides.
“We’re now beating some of those sides who were doing the same to us less than two years ago,
“Paisley Pirates recently won the Scottish Cup so the coaching is based not just on drills and fitness but strategies learned from coaches who have played the game at a high level.
“It’s very satisying to coach youngsters who are desperate to be out on the ice and take in everything you try to instil in them.”
The Lightning are currently planning on creating an older team as well as offering beginner coaching.
Colin explained: “We’re going to venture into the under-14 age group and as kids move up through the grades, we are hoping to expand the age groups in line.
“We are looking for youngsters who are eligible for these age groups as well as beginners who want to start at the very beginning in a Learn to Play programme.
“We’ve got spare kit available so youngsters wanting to experience the sport can take part without incurring expense for their parents.”
As well as the competitive edge at the club, Colin also highlights the fun aspect of playing for Lanarkshire Lighting, as well as the social draw for parents.
He said: “We’ve already played a bounce game on the Pirate’s ice at an interval during one of their games, as well as arranging for players to be mascots and lead the team out every home fixture.
“It all adds to the positive experiences we’re trying to give the kids as they make their way in the sport and so far everything is going really well.
“We have a very active club committee who raise money and give parents a chance to get to know each other, so there’s a good social element attached for the whole family.”
The Lightning are hoping to hear from boys and girls and their parents. Contact the club for more information and find out about open tryouts on Facebook at Lanarkshire Lightning Junior Ice Hockey Club, or by visiting www. lanarkshirelightning.co.uk.