Phil Lee continues to build his 2022-23 Barons with the re-signing of two key players in the capable forms of Graham Laverick and Bailey Challans who will have the task of ensuring the opposition forwards have frustrating evenings.
Goalie Graham Laverick joined the Barons at the start of 2021-22 having iced previously for the NIHL teams at Coventry, Milton Keynes and briefly the Barons, a decade or so ago. Over the past season Laverick quickly established himself as a popular player with the supporters, through thoroughly dependable play and a professional and positive approach. Phil Lee was delighted to see Graham return as part of the squad:
‘Inviting Graham back was an easy choice with him having the opportunity to show his worth in the second half of last season. This will help to ease the pressure on Sam, having two reliable goalies for the new season. Graham has a great work ethic and I am looking forward to working with him for the forthcoming season.
‘I am glad to be back in a Barons jersey this season – what an exciting season it should be with a few old faces back in the management team looking to build a solid team and bringing back the old school Barons grit. I feel like I only just found my feet towards the end of last season so I will be looking to put on some more performances this year and do my part for the team to bring some silverware back to Hobs Moat.
Phil Lee was also pleased with what he saw in young D-man Bailey Challans and so bringing the 20 year old back for another year at Solihull made lots of sense :
“Bailey impressed throughout last season for the Barons and also made the England U23 selection to play against Denmark – a great achievement. Bailey is a physical player who skates well with a good attitude and makes a positive impact for the defensive unit. I look forward to helping Bailey develop further and adding to the quality he already possesses. Welcome back Bailey!
For Challans, the chance to continue to be part of the Solihull team for another year and develop his game at Hobs Moat under Lee’s tutelage was an offer he was all too keen to take up.
‘After a very enjoyable first season with the Barons I am really excited to be resigning for a second one. I am grateful for the opportunity to return and am looking forward to working under new head coach Phil and playing with a great bunch of guys
Keep following our social media as the 2022-23 Barons roster fills out and we look ahead to the return of Sunday night action at the Moat.
#COYBARONS