Hartmann vowing his new forward-thinking approach suits Comets

Dundee Comets have confirmed three more signings for the new season, adding to the impressive forward ranks already assembled.

The newest signing is another player to arrive from Murrayfield Racers, as 18-year-old Archie Holmes makes the move from Edinburgh.

The youngster was part of the Racers’ NIHL North Cup-winning team in 2020 and notched up 17 points (5+12) in 14 appearances in the SNL.

Head coach Richard Hartmann is looking forward to working with the teenager when he joins him on Tayside and admits he’s impressed by one aspect of his game.

“Archie is coming from Edinburgh and is a very good young player,” he said.

“His work ethic is absolutely fantastic and will do well for us.

“He can skate all night long and his ability to work so hard makes him a great player already.

“I’m looking forward to developing this young Scottish talent.”

Returning to the Comets line-up in the new season is Sean Beattie, who has agreed to a second season with the club.

At 26 years old, he brings a lot of experience with him, having played for both Edinburgh Capitals and Fife Flyers in the Elite League, not to mention seven seasons of experience in the SNL.

Hartmann knows all about him from his

Edinburgh days and reckons adding Beattie is a significant piece of the Comets jigsaw.

“I’ve known Sean for a long time, he’s a very important piece in our team,” Hartmann said.

“Sean also brings leadership on and off the ice, plus he’s another big body to our line-up.

“He can skate very well and can find the net too. I’m very happy Sean decided to join Comets again, he’s a great guy and I really enjoy working with him.”

Finally, one familiar face re-signing for the new season is Billy Baxter, who is set to return for his 13th season for the club.

Baxter first joined the club in 2008 and is the longest-serving player for the Comets and Hartmann could not speak highly enough of the 36-year-old ace.

“Bax has been here the longest in the Comets organisation and he’s the most dedicated person I know,” Hartmann said.

“I have big respect for him and what he does for our club.

“He is the sort of player every coach wants to have in his team.

“He works hard with no questions asked and whenever you need help, Bax is always there ready to help and I’m absolutely delighted to have him in our team.”

The first game is next Saturday when Comets travel to Dumfries to take on Solway Sharks in the NIHL North Cup.

The Comets coach is excited by team’s new signings.