Hello Fantastic Pitbull Fans,
The mid-season point is upon us and we always planned to take stock at this point and update our superb fans with our thoughts on how this new era of Pitbulls hockey has been progressing.
When Bari was appointed back in the Summer, the Club committed itself to being the hardest working (both on and off the ice), developing young talent, playing an exciting brand of hockey – and being transparent with our fans.
This has taken on a whole new emphasis this week, as it’s been a very busy few days at The Pound.
Firstly, some extremely bitter-sweet news. At this point, we need to announce the departure of Nick Pryce from the Pitbulls with immediate effect. Having taken a season out, Nick has been playing some phenomenal hockey for the Pitbulls in 24/25 – so much so that he has now been offered a playing opportunity higher up the hockey ‘food chain’. All players want to test themselves at the highest possible level that they can – we certainly both shared this ambition in our careers. As such, whilst it’s a body blow and sad news, Nick goes with our congratulations and good wishes. Nick has assured us that he will always ‘bleed blue’ and that thedoor has not been shut on the future.
Nick leaves the Pitbulls having scored a season leading 26 goals & 30 assists in 33 games. He’s been an excellent locker room guy, a popular member of the Pitbull family – and we will remain in contact.
So, here’s the message we absolutely want you to take away from this mid-season update – playing our first ever playoff game at The Pound in Spring 2025 is still our absolute, 100% focus. There is no feeling sorry for ourselves or lowering out objectives here at Pitbull HQ. We’re simply going to work even harder – both on and off the ice.
To that end, we have already identified some potential replacements for Nick, all of whom would absolutely excite our fans. Lots of work is going on in terms of negotiations, contracts and cutting through the necessary red tape. We understand that time is of the essence and we plan on making an announcement very soon.
We’re also pleased to say that our ranks are being bolstered on a domestic footing. Highly rated netminder, Harry Thomas, is joining us on a 2-way contract with the Cardiff Canucks. Around the UK Hockey Circuit, 16 Year Old Harry is seen as a star of the future – and we are delighted that the next phase of his development will take place in Bristol. Remember the name! We’re also very pleased to say that, in the short term, we’ll be able to call on the services of Alexander Rushby, Tyler Somerton and Ales Padelek.
We’re also looking to develop the Pitbull Off-Ice Team to ensure that our product continues to improve and gives our fans and sponsors the best possible experience. To that end, John Donovan (former Cardiff Devils’ webcast commentator) has come on board in recent weeks as lead commentator and mentor for our talented, young volunteers. Likewise, we’re also delighted to welcome aboard Libby Jordan who will be helping to market the Pitbull message and spread the word that a night spent at The Pound is the best experience in the South West – particularly for corporate hospitality. If you’d like to reach out to Libby please email [email protected].
We feel that this weekend marks the start of the second half of our 2024/25 season. There really couldn’t be a tougher test as the mighty Leeds Knights come to The Pound. This task will be made even harder by the fact that Bayley Harewood is suspended for one further game.
We have the best fans in the league, and we need you on Saturday (and the rest of the season) to be the extra player on our bench and help us in our Play Off Drive. Shout, Clap, Drum, Stamp Your Feet – be loud and proud. If you haven’t gotten your tickets yet, please visit bristolpitbulls.co.uk
This season has, so far, had its high points and low points – but hopefully you can see that Bari, Tosh, the Players and everyone in the off-ice team is 100% on the same page and committed to making the Bristol Pitbulls the best possible version of itself.
You want the Playoffs. We want the Playoffs. Let’s do it.
See you at The Pound.
Rich & Bari
