The Barrys – Best Backchecker
Matt Maurice

While for some forwards, the ice at the other end of the rink is where they feel happiest others are equally glad to join in with the defensive effort and make sure they play their part in countering the opposition attacks. Matt Maurice is one of those and picks up this year’s award for best backchecker for his efforts.

From Dangie :

“Not usually known for the defenisve side of his game, Matt will be incredibly proud of this award. His dedication to back checking is second to none and he really does not put the breaks on when it comes to this aspect of the game, as many opposition players would confirm!

And from Matt :

“The season this year ending early was a real shame as I would have loved to finish the season off with such a great team. In all my seasons at the Barons I think this may have been one of the best seasons yet but even with some games where like didn’t fall our way the guys all stuck together and stayed as a team. Hopefully next year we can keep the same drive and mentality so we can get some more silverware in the Barons cupboard.

We will be back to the last of the regular awards next – the Rob Eley Endeavour award and your own Supporters’ Player of the year so keep checking in over the next few days.

The Barrys – Top points from inside the crease
Richard Slater

 

As you have left a Barons game on a Sunday evening, have you ever noticed a worn, 2 foot diameter patch of ice at the cafe end, just to the left of where the goalie stands ? It is almost like something – or someone – had been living there.

For while there will always be a place for the slapshot on goal from the blue line or a well placed wrist shot from the circles, for some players the pale blue paint of the crease is where it is at and no-one embodies this more than Rich Slater.

From Dangie :

“Slater made a comeback after a bit of time away from hockey and predictably picked up where he left off. Just outside the crease. Tap in here, deflection there, rebound, you name it and if it is by the crease Slater will get it. Although mid season he had a real off day and scored from the top of the circles! Don’t worry he has recovered and I am sure we will not see this ugly side to his game again.”

From Richard :

“Coming back into the team, I knew that there were high expectations of what we wanted to achieve. Ultimately we fell short of these expectations for one reason or another which we all felt within the dressing room.

“It took me a little while to get back up to full speed having been off the ice for 18 months, but I was always motivated to do my best for the team.

“As many will know, I’ve been in and around the Solihull set up for many many years, and I believe that this is probably the most complete group of people I’ve played with on and off the ice. It’s been great to be back at Solihull and I know that we will all be working hard to rectify last seasons wrongs and move closer to achieving our full potential.

“It’s always a pleasure to receive recognition, so a bit thank you to all that came to this decision.

“I hope everyone is keeping safe during these difficult times and looks forward to us getting back on the ice soon!!

The Barrys – Mr Megaphone
Andrew Whitehouse

 

“Beware the quiet man. For while others speak, he watches. And while others act, he plans. And when they finally rest… he strikes.” Anonymous, Vice (2018)

That may or may not be true of the quiet man of the Barons Andy Whitehouse but as Dangie says :

“Not known for his vocal presence Andy has been an every present in the last number of seasons for the Barons. Yet many are still to hear him speak, even his line mates! Andy is an intelligent player and this year has even managed to secure a few face off wins, onwards and upwards!”

Andy himself had broadly positive reflections on the season past :

“I think we have had an average season winning the Midlands Cup, not performing consistently in the league is what let us down this year. Despite that it was a good year on and off the ice with the team of lads that we have around us!

“Just want to finish by saying thanks to all those involved in making the season happen; the coaches, the off ice staff and the fans. Looking forward to next season.. whenever that is!

A few more awards to go so keep following us over the course of the week for the remainder including your Supporters Player of the Year.