NEWS: Aces bulk up Elite League squad
Elite League Champions Wednesfield Aces have made sure that their squad for the 2016 season is a competitive one by making a few crafty and clever signings over the close season as they prepare to defend their title.
Wedensfield manager Wayne Aris explains, “Over the past couple of months we have made three new additions to the Aces squad after losing 2 riders from last years in Bobby McMillan and Ricki Johnson.
“The first of the three is Reece Pollitt. An up and coming youngster from the north. I first saw this lad when I was reffing the GB v Aussie test match at Wedensfield last year and I was very impressed. Quick out of the gate he has a good turn of speed on the track and always looking for the pass if he is behind.
Reece Pollitt (right) with Wayne Aris (left)
“Reece always scored well for his team in the northern league last year, so when I had the phone call in the middle of December to say Reece had chosen Wedensfield to race for in the Elite League the paperwork was all sorted and signed within days.”
Reece has joined a bagful of youngsters at the Aces with the likes of Brandon Whetton, Karl Parfitt, Lee Kemp, and Haydn Rowley, who are some of the best up and coming riders in the country. Reece will make his debut for the Aces on February 27th in a friendly against Bury.
Aris continued, “Since the end of last year we have been in close contact with Welsh International Nicky Evans to see what his situation was regarding the 2016 season after Newport decided not to compete in the Elite League. A couple of clubs were after Nicky for the new season, but after few weeks Nicky got back to us to say it was Wedensfield he would like to join for the 2016 Elite League season.
Nicky Evans (left) pictured in action for Wales.
“This was great news for us because Nicky had a fantastic season last year, not only did he score well in the Elite last year for his team, Newport, but he also played a big part for Wales in the World Cup final and the highlight of his season was being picked for Team GB and getting a four ride maximum round his home track in the second test match against the Aussies. Nicky is a great team man and will be a fantastic asset to the Aces team and I will look forward to working with him.
“Scottish International Mikey Hewitson is rider I have watched for a few seasons now and I like his style of riding and his attitude and dedication but for the past few seasons his loyalty has been with Sheffield. So when the opportunity came up to sign him I was on the phone to him straight away.
Mikey Hewitson in action for Edinburgh. Picture by George Swanson.
“So after a few phone calls and a few text messages Mikey gave me the good news that it was Wedensfield he decided to come to. Mikey is a good team rider and his style of riding will suit the kind of riders that he will be around at Wedensfield. He is a quick and an aggressive rider always gives a 100% and I like that in a rider. He will be a great lad to have on our side of the pits.”
“Finally I have to mention Matt Smith, who we have signed on a full license. Matt was with us last year on a Elite League licence had a great season for us and enjoyed it so much he has now decided to join us on a full time basis from neighbouring rivals Birmingham. Matt who was part of the GB squad last year, is a rider who on his day is capable of beating anyone and for a man who is still in is early 20s still has a lot to give any team.
Matt Smith (left) and Wayne Aris (right)
“So with Matt joining on a full it makes our Midland team and our British Team Cup team, which we will be trying to win for the fourth time on the trot, much stronger for the up and coming season. Matt will be a great addition to our full term basis riders another local rider in the bag.
“So on behalf of myself the committee, riders and supporters I welcome Reece, Nicky, Mikey and Matt to the Wedensfield Aces and hope you all have a great season with us.
“Can I just take this opportunity to also thank everyone who has wished me luck and gave me congrats on getting the England Managers job. All I can say is that I will give it my all and 100% dediction while I am manager. Things are already in motion regarding new tops and sponsorship but more news will be released in the near future.”