The Solihull Barons have set themselves up with the beginnings of a very solid defensive core for 2022-23 with the return of Marcus Maynard and Richard Crowe to the roster. The two, who were commonly paired together on the Barons top D-line last season, were essential signings for coach Phil Lee, who as a noted former defenceman himself knows more than anyone the importance of getting the D right.
Marcus Maynard joined the Barons in 2017-18 having previously iced with Nottingham, Telford and Hull. While his strength on the blue-line and in his own end marked him out as a quality defenceman, his leadership qualities have also been a major asset – a point not lost on Lee :
“I am delighted to have back Marcus again this season. Marcus has a wealth of experience and hockey knowledge and is a role model and true leader in the team with a no nonsense attitude. He will be a key member of the defensive unit and I look forward to working with Marcus in the new season.
From Marcus’s perspective, September and getting back down to business can not come too soon :
”It’s great to be back for the Barons, it’s a top bunch of lads that we have in the room, so it’s not a hard decision to return. I’m looking forward to getting back on the ice and excited to see what Leepy does with the team. Enjoy the summer and we look forward to seeing all the Barons fans down at the rink soon!
Richard Crowe meanwhile returns having come through the Solihull junior system and then iced with the senior team since 2011-12. Playing an effective role in controlling opposition attacks while also contributing to the offence through neat breakout play or long range shots, ‘Crowey’ will be another popular figure returning to Hobs Moat in September. Phil Lee was delighted bring back the Barons number 6 for another year :
“Having Crowey back for the new season is a real bonus. He is a no nonsense, physical defenceman and has a touch of quality that will help us on the D. He is a good playmaker and has an under-rated slap shot from the point which I will be encouraging him to use this year. Nice to have you back Crowey.
Richard Crowe himself was more than happy to sign on again with his home town club and was very excited with the return of Leepy to the Solihull set-up :
”Hello all, hope you’re all having a great summer and taking care of yourself’s. I just want to take a quick moment to thank each and every one of you guys that come along and support the Barons, and going forward we hope you are still able to support for the forthcoming season. This season will certainly not be one you would want to miss with Leeps taking over as head coach! Through my junior years of playing senior hockey I had the privilege to be able to be Leepy’s D-partner for a few seasons and doing so taught me a lot and made my adjustment to senior hockey a lot easier. I’m excited to see what leeps has lined up for us.
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