Popular ice hockey team looks to the future

THE future of ice hockey in Dumfries is now secure, after new club owners were approved by the National Ice Hockey League.

A decision was reached following diligence reviews and discussions at the recent owners’ meeting, after which the members voted in favour of admitting the new organisation.

It has been a turbulent off-season for the former Solway Sharks following a total breakdown in relations between Dumfries and Galloway Council and the club’s previous operators, DJR Sport Ltd, over alleged unpaid debts.

Now, the club is back with a new name, new logo and new operators, once again playing out of the Dumfries Ice Bowl under their new moniker Solway Ice Hockey Club (SIHC), under the ownership of Gary McCracken, Jamie Crosbie, Santiago Buesa and Charlie Shaw.

Board director Gary McCracken commented on behalf of the new operating company: “I would like to thank the NIHL National management team and the owners’ group for their support throughout this transition period. Without their backing, this announcement—and indeed the future of the team—would not have been possible.“After months of hard work behind the scenes, we are delighted to finally confirm that National League hockey in Dumfries will continue. We couldn’t be happier to share this news.”

McCracken went on to thank fans for their support and patience during throughout the unsettled period. He added: “We fully understand the frustrations of fans regarding the lack of updates in recent months, but it was important that we followed the correct processes and ensured the club’s future was secure before making any announcements.
“We look forward to welcoming teams and fans back to our home, Dumfries Ice Bowl, for the upcoming season.”

Meanwhile, fixture planning is in full swing with the new organisation successfully admitted into the League and the club are fully-engaged in building a competitive roster ready to compete in September.