NORTON RETURNS TO THE POUND

On the day we brought you one familiar face, it only seemed right to bring you another!
The Drive North Bristol Pitbulls are delighted to announce the return of Ben Norton for the upcoming 2026/27 season.
The 22-year-old Doncaster-born netminder returns to The Pound for a second spell in Bristol. Ben brings with him a wealth of experience, having spent four seasons in North America, icing in the USPHL with Northwood School and the Columbia Infantry, while also gaining valuable experience closer to home with the Sheffield Steeldogs and, most recently, the Telford Tigers.
In a similar story to Will Kerlin, Ben returns to Bristol after continuing his development elsewhere. The former Great Britain U18 and U20 international now comes back to The Pound looking to build on his previous spell with the club and further establish himself at NIHL National level.

Rich Hargreaves said:

“Ben’s return to The Pound after two seasons away is a fantastic addition for us. Similar to Will, he’s gained valuable experience elsewhere, and those important minutes in league, cup and playoff competition will only strengthen our roster.

Ben, another great character in the room and welcomed during his first spell in Bristol. He was a young goalie when he first arrived, but even then he showed how calm and composed he was. He has excellent reflexes and is more than capable of holding his own at this level.
I’m really excited about the partnership we’ll have between Ben and Will. Having two netminders who can both start games and hold their own at this level is a real luxury for us as a coaching staff. They’ll push each other every day and bring out the best in one another through healthy competition.

Having two goalies who can hold their own gives us some real depth in a key position and plenty of options throughout the season. That’s something every team looks for, and we’re fortunate to have it heading into the new campaign.
Ben is excited to return to Bristol and show the fans what he can do, and I’m looking forward to working with him again this season.”

Everyone at the Bristol Pitbulls would like to welcome Ben back to The Pound, and we look forward to seeing him back between the pipes for the 2026/27 season.

Welcome back, Ben! 🐾🏒
#21