Winning Wildcats Premier Bound
Billingham Wildcats will be playing in the top flight of Women’s Ice Hockey next season as they completed a winning weekend in Coventry to gain promotion to the Women’s Ice Hockey Premier League.
The Wildcats who have already won English Division One (North) had to play against the winners of the Southern section Swindon Topcats. Billingham were not too confident going into the game as Swindon had beaten them the week earlier 4-0. In fact some of the girls had not even booked hotel accommodation for the Saturday night.
The Wildcats started their game against the Topcats at a fantastic pace and led 4-0 at one stage but the Topcats clawed their way back into the game and in the by the time the final period came along the score stood at 4-4.But a last gasp goal from Billingham’s Leanne Clark had the wildcats purring with delight as they gained victory and the right to play Premiership bottom club Nottingham Vipers the following day.
After making a few frantic phone calls to secure hotel accommodation, the girls blew the Nottingham Vipers away the following day as they completely dominated and ran out deserved 6-1 winners.
Wildcats coach, Julie Hammond said” The girls have been brilliant all season and last weekend they really turned on the style. This season has been about a squad effort and all the girls have played their part. We will really enjoy our presentation night on Friday where Rachel McCabe will be presented with our player of the year award and Jess Grimwood will be presented with our most improved player of the year award.”
The Wildcats will be taking a well earned rest until mid July when they start pre season training in preparation for the Premier League season that starts in September.
If you are interesting in watching or taking part in Ice Hockey please contact Billingham Forum on (01642) 551381.
Top Row L-R Steph Box, Leanne Clarke, Fiona Hennessy, Emma Gourley (c), Rachel McCabe, Lauren Alexander, Jenny Carter, Ray Peckett (assist Coach)
2nd Row Lucy Elmer, Julie Hammond (Coach), Samantha Emmerson ,Amy Campbell, Jess Grinwood, Sarah Jackson
Net minders Evie Roberts and Clare Ascough