It is with some sadness that the Solihull Barons and head-coach Perry Doyle have decided by mutual consent to part ways for the 2017-18 season. Perry is not able to give the 100% commitment he knows is needed due to work and family commitments. On a positive note, Perry has agreed with Daniel MacKriel to take over as head coach and the team will be announced shortly. Perry himself will continue to work with the junior set-up.

Perry began his hockey career with Solihull before joining the pro ranks in the mid 90s, becoming an imposing figure on the blue line for both the Nottingham Panthers and Sheffield Steelers. Perry rejoined the Barons midway through the 2012-13 season and quickly re-established himself as a firm fan favourite and a scourge of any opposition looking to take liberties.

He soon assumed Assistant Captain duties and then took on the head coach role as the Barons moved into division 1, leading Solihull to third place in the league and a play-off final spot in his and the sides, debut in the league. Most recently, Perry again helped the Barons secure a spot at this season’s play-off weekend, losing out narrowly to eventual winners Solway in a thrilling semi-final.

We are sure our supporters would join with us in thanking Perry for his contribution to the Barons and wish him all the very best with his future.

We are sure our supporters will also welcome on board the highly experienced MacKriel who most recently coached the NL Telford Tigers. Before that he led the Blackburn Hawks in their domination of the 2015-16 season and hopes to announce a very exciting Barons squad over the next few weeks.