Exciting trio added to Jets

Published 1 Aug 2009 09:00 0 Comments

Share this

Ice hockey

HEAD coach Pete Russell has added three young guns to his Slough Jets squad following the departure of Kevin Phillips to the Belfast Giants in the Elite League.

Charles Kaylor, Sam Waller and Jamie Milton are the new faces at the Hangar and Russell believes that his squad has the freshness and hunger to challenge near the top of the English Premier League.

He said: "When I took this job I was relishing the chance of putting together a good, solid squad, but I think we have managed to achieve this. I like our team, it has a freshness and a hunger about it.

"We have lots of young talent and experience to bring it on and I really believe we have a top five team. Losing Kevin Phillips is a massive loss but I like our defence and we have Blaz (Emersic) who can step back there from time to time, when required."

About the recent recruits, Russell commented: "I have been working hard to finish off the squad and it's good to announce three, quality Brits.

"Charles Kaylor has been in the US for the last four years at Notre Dame, which is a great place for developing hockey players and people. I had been looking for a real good younger guy to push (netminder Gregg) Rockman all the way. Charles is 18 years old, is 6ft plus, has good technical style and a fantastic work ethic.

"I have not seen him play in four years but have spoken to his last two coaches in the US and their honesty and evaluation of Charles gave me no second thoughts about getting him on board.

"I know Charles is really excited about joining the Jets and I am looking forward to seeing him in action in September.

"Sam Waller has been playing in Swindon for the last few years and last season he signed for his first full season with the Wildcats. He is a GB18 international and has played for England in all age groups. Sam is 17 years old, and has good size and skill level.

"I worked with Sam for two years in Swindon and I rate him very highly. He plays tough and fair, and reads the game very well. Along with the signing of Billy Phillips, I believe that we have two of the best young D-men in the UK.

"Jamie Milton is returning for his fourth season in Jets colours and is a product of the Slough Junior system, where he racked up lots of points throughout his junior days. I am hoping to kick start Jamie and help him make a full transition to senior hockey. He is offensively talented, knows where the goal is and does not back out of a battle along the wall or in the corners. Talking with Jamie I know he is hungry to do well and will push to make his mark this season."

Russell added: "We are not far away from completing the roster for the season ahead and so far I believe we have a good mix of age and talent.

"We have size, speed, skill, toughness and good depth, for what I believe will be the toughest EPL league in its history."

This article appeared in Royal Borough Observer 31 Jul 09

Return to the main index, get more from this section or browse our Sport archives.

Follow @windsorobserver