After the controversy of yesterday, much was expected from Manchester Phoenix’s “major” announcement at 7am this morning.
But it turned out to be an anti-climax, considering the situation, as the news was unrelated to the Elite League break up.
However, in a normal week, it would be big news – Tony Hand MBE agreeing a new long-term deal with the club.
Hand is the greatest British hockey player of all time. At the age of 41, he is still the best British forward in the Elite League.
In 1986, he became the first British-born player to be drafted by an NHL team, when he was picked 252nd overall by the Edmonton Oilers. Homesickness got the better of him, and he rejected a contract in Canada to return to the UK. In his excellent autobiography, A life in British Ice Hockey, Hand admits his regret at not sticking it out across the pond.
Earlier this season, he registered his 4000th career point, against Hull Stingrays. For the past three years, he’s been at the helm of Manchester and will continue to do so for the forseeable future.
What remains to be seen is what league he will be leading Phoenix in next season. The story goes on.
Pic: Manchester Phoenix
