Coles is first rider revealed for Lion Cubs’ 2022 line-up
LEICESTER have confirmed their commitment to a third year of entering a junior team in the National Development League, writes Alan Jones.
They have already started to build their team for the 2022 season with the news that Connor Coles will race for the Lion Cubs.
Coles, left, whose father and grandfather were speedway riders at a professional level, has consistently scored well as a visiting rider to Leicester.
He impressed onlookers on his last appearance in October, when after recovering from a fall in his opening ride he scored eight points from a possible 12 for his Belle Vue Colts team.
Lion Cubs team manager David Howard is particularly pleased that Leicester has secured his services.
He said: “It is a delight to welcome Connor to the Lion Cubs.
“His riding and scoring ability, together with his great personality, make Connor a really positive addition to the team in all aspects, including strengthening the team further at the top end as we set the aim of challenging for honours.” It is understood that Leicester’s team building plans are progressing at a rapid rate and it is anticipated that more of the the remaining six riders will be announced over the coming days.
Eight clubs have confirmed that they will be racing in the National Development League campaign in 2022.
Last season’s champions Mildenhall are returning to defend their title along with fellow members Armadale (Edinburgh), Belle Vue (Manchester), Berwick and Leicester.
The Kent Royals have withdrawn from the league but the third tier of the sport welcomes Iwade (Sittingbourne, Kent) along with entries from Championship clubs Oxford and Plymouth who have pledged to enter junior teams to race in the National Development League.
Play-offs will return to decide the winners of the league title with the top four finishers in the table going forward to the semi-finals.
In the Knock-out Cup, the Lion Cubs have been drawn against the Berwick Bullets.