After more than 30 years playing Ice hockey at Solihull, I have made the decision to call an end to my playing career with the Solihull Barons at the close of the 2015/16 season. It has been a particularly difficult decision as I've had so many great years, making friends, winning trophies and having the honour of being captain of my Home town club. The club have generously offered me a testimonial season of which ALL money raised will be given to the two charities which are very important to my family and I.

Rob wants your help !

The first charity is Ward 19 at Heartlands Hospital Birmingham where my wife Catherine is currently receiving treatment for Cancer. Unfortunately most people know about Ward 19 and the brilliant work they do treating some of the most poorly cancer patients in the region. This specialist cancer unit treats many different types of cancer, which includes haematological cancer such as leukaemia.

As this charity will be the main beneficiary of my testimonial season, it will be known as 19 for 19 because as the Solihull Barons number 19.. I will be raising funds for Ward 19. We will be using these funds to make patients and the families more comfortable during their time on Ward 19.

The second charity is The Willow Foundation. Willow is the only charity working with seriously ill young adults aged 16 to 40 to fulfil uplifting and unforgettable Special Days. These Special Days enable them and their families to reconnect and refocus on each other while enjoying an activity of their choosing. A day for them, a day about them and a day that will create memories they will all treasure forever.

Our aim is to raise over £20,000 for these 2 charities by organising a testimonial ice hockey match at Solihull Ice Rink which will take place at the end of April 2016. Along with this match we will also be arranging other events throughout the season which will include; An Evening with Dave Simms, Ice Skate with The Solihull Barons, Spring Ball/ Gala Dinner and a Golf Day at a local golf course.

So please get involved with 19 for 19 in whatever way you can; whether it's sponsoring or attending one the events or even just a donation. Hopefully with your help I can raise money for charity while celebrating the end of my time with the Barons.

Rob Eley – Captain Solihull Barons #19