The Wightlink Raiders are delighted to announce the signing of 25 year old Canadian power forward Chris Jones for the new season which starts in September.
The Ontario-born right winger stands at 6’4 and weighs 225lbs and has just finished studies at York University where he’s played for their varsity team in the CIS league for the last four seasons.
In 99 games for York he scored 34 goals and 35 assists and picked up 101 penalty minutes and he was team captain last year. Prior to that Chris played five years of junior hockey in the OPJHL for Cobourg Cougars.
Saying goodbye to Jason Gorrie
Chris’ arrival means Jason Gorrie won’t be returning for the new season after being a part of the Raiders title winning team this year.
Coach Jeremy Cornish says the club will always be grateful for his contribution, “Jason was a popular guy on and off the ice and his performances undoubtedly helped us win the league. We’d like to thank him for all his efforts and wish him all the best for the future.”
Speaking about his new signing Cornish is delighted to be able to attract a player of his calibre to the ENL.
“Chris will be a big presence for us on and off the ice this season, we are very fortunate to have him and he will no doubt be one of the top imports in the ENL this upcoming year.
“Chris has played Canadian University hockey the last four years and he will be looking to make his mark on the British game and there is no better place for him to start his pro career then with the Raiders. Chris will not only be a point producer for us this year, he will also taking a leadership role with the team and help the young guys understand what it takes to play at a high level.
“On behalf of myself and the team I would like to welcome Chris to the team and I hope his first year in the league will not only springboard him to higher leagues, but also help us challenge for more silverware along the way.”
Raised in Canada
Chris himself was actually born in Scotland but moved to Canada when he was a baby and describes golf and working on cars as his favourite pastimes when he’s not on the ice.
He says he’s thrilled to be starting his professional hockey career on the Isle of Wight, “It’s a pleasure to be invited to play for the Raiders, I have heard nothing but good things from Jeremy Cornish about the team and the Island so far!! My parents, sister and myself all moved over to Canada in late 86 but I am anxious to get back. I was born in Dumfries, been back twice since; but have never been to England so I am excited for the experience ahead. I have been told the fans are great on the Island and I can’t wait to be a part of the organization”¦”
Chris Jones arrival now means the Raiders have seven players signed up so far for the new season. He joins Jeremy Cornish, Nathan Taylor, Richard Facey, Steve Gosset, Alex Murray and Niall Bound as confirmed players for 2011-2012.
