Boss impresses Matt

Long- serving Braehead Clan stalwart Mat t Haywood insists he can’t wait to see what new head coach John Tripp has in store for the side.

Haywood agreed new terms with the side last week, penning a threeyear contract which will take him into a decade with the club.

Haywood has been there and seen it all with the Clan having been part of the first ever squad since its formation in 2010.

Head coaches have come and gone, with Haywood featuring under Bruce Richardson, Paul Gardner and Ryan Finnerty.

And with Tripp now joining the side for next season, the 26-yearold admits he is looking forward to meeting up with the new man having heard glowing reviews.

Haywood said: “It’s good and we’re heading in the right direction.

“From what I hear of Mr Tripp, he likes his hard work and rewards his hard workers, which is what I want and what I think the fans want too.

“I didn’t know much about him, but when I found out, I researched him. He’s got good references and everyone speaks highly of him.

“I’ve heard he’s fitness orientated and if a guy like Paul Gardner says nothing but good things about him, then I’ll take his word for it.”

The third and final year of Haywood’s contract will see the experienced GB international awarded with a testimonial.

Having signed as a youngster he admits that he holds a place in his heart for the side.

He added: “Time has definitely flown in my time at the club.

“I first arrived as a young kid in 2010 and I’m not so young now.

“I’ve grown up in this team, going from an 18-year-old kid to a 26-year-old father.

“I don’t think it could be any more poles apart.

“It was the best direction ever.”