You’re never too young
Pirates and Lightning team up to form new squad
Paisley Pirates are on the hunt for the next stars looking to light up ice hockey in Scotland.
The club recently announced they were teaming up with fellow Braehead outfit the Clan to form a player pathway for promising youngsters to progress through to the Elite League side.
Now the Pirates are taking another step to help prospective Renfrewshire stars by linking up with Lanarkshire Lightning to form a brand new under-18 team on the ice to compete in the Scottish league ahead of the 2020/21 season.
The set-up will see the Pirates recruit players with the intention of providing them with a springboard opportunity to progress into their senior Scottish National League squad, giving them high quality coaching and mentoring throughout the season.
Delighted Paisley Pirates operations manager Jackie Turley said: “The Paisley Pirates are an organisation that wants to sign and develop young British players.
“Our long term objective is to have a number of development players competing in the SNL squad, where they can learn and have a chance to take their game further under our coaches Ian Turley and Adam Walker.”
Lanarkshire Lightning chairman Jim Paterson believes the new deal will give youngsters the very best chance of progressing to senior level.
He said: “As a club the Lanarkshire Lightning have always been keen to help our youngsters reach their potential and our coaches are very dedicated and enthusiastic in doing this.
“Having an under-18 team so close will give our players the chance to complete their junior careers, which will give them the best opportunity to progress to senior level.
“We are delighted to be a part of this.” Turley believes the partnership could lead to a promising start for many teenagers and is urging anyone interested to get in touch with the Pirates ahead of the new season.
She added: “With the recent announcement of the partnership between the Pirates and the Clan, these kids will have something to strive for, and who knows, in a few years time they could be lacing their skates up with their heroes in the Elite League.”
Players who may wish to come on board or require more information should contact the club by emailing paisleypirates@gmail.com.