Bakrlik is back at the Hive as Scott gets signing
BRACKNELL BEES have added three more names to their 2017/18 roster as Scott Spearing continues to shape his squad.
Veteran Czech forward Frantisek Bakrlik, who Spearing describes as “no nonsense” and “one of the most hated players this country has seen” has returned to the Hive having left the side during the 2015/16 campaign.
Bakrlik began his career way back in 2000 in his homeland, eventually moving on to play in Canada and then Poland before making the switch to England in 2011.
A season in the Elite League, scoring 19 goals, during spells at Hull Stingrays, Coventry Blaze and Fife Flyers was followed by a move to EPIHL side Slough Jets.
Bakrlik then moved onto Manchester Phoenix before signing for the Bees in 2015, only to leave 17 games later to join Milton Keynes Lightning.
With nearly 300 EPIHL games and 200 goals to his name, Spearing is delighted to add Bakrlik to his ranks.
“Contrary to popular belief, Frankie and I get on very well,” said the new player-coach.
“We have a mutual respect for each other and his edgy no nonsense style is exactly what I like.
“He is no doubt one of the most loved and hated players this country has seen and I’m very pleased to have the opportunity to have him back in a Bees shirt.”
Another familiar face signing up for the NIHL campaign is JAN BENDIK.
After a season away in Germany, the three-time defenceman of the year has come back to Berkshire at the club he spent four previous seasons at.
Bendik won the supporters’ player of the season award during his first campaign at the club in 2012-13.
“I’m over the moon to welcome Janny back to Bracknell,” said Spearing.
“His ability to move the puck, matched with his strength and experience in the defensive zone, is an incredible start to our defensive core.
“He will have a huge influence on the young guys on the team and will help to develop our young British talent.”
Bees have also added English forward STEVE OSMAN to their ranks.
Osman, 29, was part of last season’s NIHL South play-off winners Invicta Dynamos and is a proven points scorer at this level.
He has also played in the level above with Basingstoke Bison and Telford Tigers as well as having spells at Bristol Pitbulls, Cardiff Devils and Oxford City Stars.
“I’m very pleased to add Ozzy to the team,” commented Spearing.
“He contacted me during the summer and had the perfect attitude.
“He is a proven top player in the NIHL and I think he will fit very well into the group of players that I’m putting together.”
One man who has left the club is youngster Rio Grinell-Parke.
Grinell-Parke joined Bees full-time last summer from London Raiders and his form earned a call-up to the Great Britain Under-18 squad.
The forward, who netted six goals in 51 games for Bracknell, has joined Milton Keynes Thunder.