Henderson, Thorp and Walker are back with the Pirates
CRAIG RITCHIE
Paisley Pirates have confirmed the return of yet more players ahead of the upcoming 2019/20 season.
Forwards Callum Henderson and Richard Thorp have been joined by defenceman Ben Walker for the forthcoming campaign.
Thorp has agreed a deal to remain at the club for his fifth consecutive season with the club, while Henderson returns for his third.
Last season was Callum’s best season at the club as he led the team in goals and assists.
He amassed 16 goals and 17 assists in 16 games in the league finishing with 33 points, and he revealed he is hoping to add to his tally.
Henderson said: “I am very happy to be returning to Paisley this year. Everyone from the coaching staff to the players brings a professional attitude and it’s a great group to be a part of. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here and I’m looking forward to building on last season’s success.”
Meanwhile, Thorp is keen to put an injury-ridden season behind him as he bids to get back to his very best.
Despite missing a number of games, Thorp still picked up five goals and five assists in 10 league games, as well as helping the team to the playoff title.
He said: “We had a great end to the season, the team went from strength to strength and winning the playoffs meant we finished on a high.
“Last season I was carrying a number of injuries so even though the team did fantastic I always thought I could do better.
“I’ve had a good break. I’ve been in the gym most days working on my fitness and rehab and I can’t wait to get back on the ice”
And coach Adam Walker is looking forward to welcoming Thorp back to the club, adding: “Thorpy is another player who has a long association with the club and when he is on his game, other teams find him very hard to deal with him.
“Hopefully now that he is injuryfree and had a good summer of working hard he can add to our quality and set an example for our younger players to follow.”
And Ben Walker is looking ahead to his second season with the Pirates having previously iced for the Edinburgh Capitals, Dundee Comets and Kirkcaldy Kestrels.
Last season was a frustrating one having been hampered by injury for the most part, but he is ready to go this year and wants to contribute on a larger scale,
He said: “I am very happy to be returning to Paisley this year. Last year was a frustrating one as I missed quite a few games, but I’m looking to bounce back this year and provide the consistency at the back end I know I am capable of.”
Coach Ian Turley is excited to see his man back in Paisley colours.
Turley added: “Ben has been skating over the summer to give himself the best possible chance to hit the ground running.”
I’m looking forward to building on last season’s success