The Wendy’s Peterborough Phantoms are pleased to announce the signing of Zaine McKenzie on a two-way deal with the Coventry Blaze, whilst Billy Thorpe will link up with the EIHL side on a two-way deal of his own.
McKenzie has become a familiar face to the Phantoms’ organisation over the last year, with the 21-year-old stepping in on numerous occasions to bolster the Phantoms’ amidst injury issues. He played both as a forward and as a defenceman, picking up five points in his 13 regular season outings with the Phantoms last term.
And the former Great Britain U20 International will now rejoin the Phantoms on a two-way agreement with his hometown side, the Coventry Blaze.
Zaine said: “I am grateful to continue my development and be a part of the Phantoms organisation for my second year. Having the opportunity last season to come and play valuable minutes as both a d man and forward, really benefited me and allowed me to push my game, learn from many of the experienced guys and feel part of the club.
“I also cannot thank the club as a whole organisation enough for my stint with you last season. You guys made me feel welcome every time I stepped inside that rink.”
“Excited for year two. See you soon, Phantoms fans! 💙” Zaine concluded.
Meanwhile, Thorpe, a success story of Phantoms’ junior system, re-signs with the Blaze on a two-way agreement, having enjoyed a similar agreement last season.
The Peterborough born, Great Britain U20 International defenceman, skated with the Blaze when time allowed and featured for the Elite League Club when his Phantoms schedule enabled him to.
Billy said the following on his two-way agreement: “I’m really pleased to be able to sign on another two way this year with Coventry. I really enjoyed my time last year whenever I was there and feel like I learnt a lot in the short space of time I was there over the season. Obviously with work commitments, it makes it hard to fully commit to professional hockey, but I’m hoping this year I will be able to take more opportunities and hopefully be able to be involved with them more!“
Phantoms’ Head Coach, Ashley Tait, said: “Having the option on Zaine and giving Billy the opportunity to get EIHL experience is great for the club. The players will benefit from training at a higher level and those benefits should be visible when they come back in!”
Kevin Moore, Head Coach of the Coventry Blaze, said: “Billy was someone who impressed us last season in both his professionalism and the details in his defensive game. He is someone who has a bright future and we are excited to be apart of his development this season”
“Peterborough is an organisation with a winning culture that makes a commitment to development, and I am very happy we can continue our relationship with them this season” Kevin concluded.
Player sponsorship opportunities, from equipment to their Stall Plaque and their Shirt Own and Loans are now available on the Online Shop, and start as low as £10.
Our Corporate sponsorship brochure can be viewed here. For any sponsorship questions, please email Nicki@PeterboroughPhantoms.co.uk
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