By Frankie Notaro

The Bristol Honda Pitbulls would like to welcome Defencemen Jay King as a permanent member to the team after an impressive game last Friday against the Swindon Wildcats.

Jay King has joined the Pitbulls after playing for the Chelmsford Chieftains for the past 2 seasons for Lewis Clifford since the Basingstoke Bison found themselves unable to participate in the league. During the 2 seasons that Jay has been a part of the Chieftains, he has been able to collect 27 points in 35 games from 5 goals and 22 assists. 

A recent success in Jay King’s career was winning the NIHL 1 South Playoffs last season with Chelmsford where they were able to beat the Solent Devils in the playoff final to secure the silverware. Jay has also had the chance in the 2015/16 season to play for the Great Britain Under 20s team and he was able to secure 1 assist from the tournament. Coming into this team he will add experience he can pass onto the younger players within the roster. 

Bari McKenzie’s comments towards the signing were:

“Both Tony and I are delighted that Jay has decided to join us on a permanent basis after making an appearance for us last Friday. 

I have known Jay for many years through our Edinburgh connection, and tosh more recently after working with Jay in Basingstoke and we believe that he is a good fit not just what he can bring on the ice but also in the locker room. You know as a coaching team when you tell the guys and there is excitement from the players it’s the right fit. 

We as a coaching team have been waiting for the right player to become available to us and bringing in Jay will bolster our defence.”

Tony Redmond commented further by adding:

“I know what Jay can bring to the team both on and off the ice, having worked with him for years in Basingstoke. He is an excellent skater, who moves the puck well and hates to lose. I am positive he will fit in seamlessly with what we are trying to build here in Bristol.”