Post by SallyMahers on May 14, 2004 13:24:12 GMT 1
PRESS RELEASE FROM THE COVENTRY BLAZE
TAIT THE FIRST TO RETURN
14 May 2004
'High and Mighty' Coventry Blaze are pleased to announce that Ashley Tait has
become the first player to sign for the 2004/5 season.
Tait will be coming to the Skydome for his third season with the club, having
been the most consistent scorer over the past two years.
He was voted player's player of the year in the first season in the Elite
League, and also picked up the British Ice Hockey Writers' Association award
for best British forward.
The 28-year-old, who was also voted British player of the tournament in the
recent World Championships, scored a point a game in the league season,
notching 25 goals and 31 assists.
He is now one of the favourites to be named successor to Michael Tasker as
captain when the side resumes action in September.
Tait said: "I take the view that if it isn't broken, then don't fix it. I like
the club, know the set-up and know the city and couldn't see any reason to move
on. I am comfortable where I am.
"It is very flattering to be the first player that is signed. It carries a lot
of responsibility, especially as there will be quite few changes this summer.
"I think we over-achieved last year and if we are to improve then we have to
come first or second in the league or win the challenge cup.
"No-one really knew what to expect in the Elite League this year and the
standard was good, I think it will improve and I'm really excited about the new
season."
Blaze coach Paul Thompson said: "I think Ashley has developed as a player since
he came to this club, and I am delighted that he is coming back for a third
season.
"It speaks volumes about the way that this club has progressed that we can not
only sign him but keep him as well.
"There were a lot of teams sniffing around him and he has made a commitment to
this club which will see him with us for another season.
"He has great leadership qualities and I like the idea of having another British
captain because it sets a strong example to our junior players. I will
definitely be considering Ashley for the captain's role this season."
TAIT THE FIRST TO RETURN
14 May 2004
'High and Mighty' Coventry Blaze are pleased to announce that Ashley Tait has
become the first player to sign for the 2004/5 season.
Tait will be coming to the Skydome for his third season with the club, having
been the most consistent scorer over the past two years.
He was voted player's player of the year in the first season in the Elite
League, and also picked up the British Ice Hockey Writers' Association award
for best British forward.
The 28-year-old, who was also voted British player of the tournament in the
recent World Championships, scored a point a game in the league season,
notching 25 goals and 31 assists.
He is now one of the favourites to be named successor to Michael Tasker as
captain when the side resumes action in September.
Tait said: "I take the view that if it isn't broken, then don't fix it. I like
the club, know the set-up and know the city and couldn't see any reason to move
on. I am comfortable where I am.
"It is very flattering to be the first player that is signed. It carries a lot
of responsibility, especially as there will be quite few changes this summer.
"I think we over-achieved last year and if we are to improve then we have to
come first or second in the league or win the challenge cup.
"No-one really knew what to expect in the Elite League this year and the
standard was good, I think it will improve and I'm really excited about the new
season."
Blaze coach Paul Thompson said: "I think Ashley has developed as a player since
he came to this club, and I am delighted that he is coming back for a third
season.
"It speaks volumes about the way that this club has progressed that we can not
only sign him but keep him as well.
"There were a lot of teams sniffing around him and he has made a commitment to
this club which will see him with us for another season.
"He has great leadership qualities and I like the idea of having another British
captain because it sets a strong example to our junior players. I will
definitely be considering Ashley for the captain's role this season."