Photograph of Shane Hewitt courtsey of Ian Hanlon.

Following the Northern League “Face-off” Tournament at the weekend, the TDC Waste Management Northern Stars Ice Hockey Academy are delighted to announce the signings of Shane Hewitt, Richard Emmerson and Graham Robson. The forward trio return to the Metro Radio Arena having iced last season for the Newcastle ENL Vipers.

TDC Stars joint head coach Stephen Foster acknowledged Shane Hewitt has been through a difficult 2009/10. “Last season Shane was bugged by injury” said the former Durham Wasps netminder. “He is a no-nonesense hard hitting forward who will be looking to improve more from last season while looking to cement a regular slot in the line-up again”.

Richard Emerson is a player Foster believes every team needs on their roster: “Richard is a defensive centre, he isn’t flashy but works well at both ends of the rink. He is improving year on year and we’re looking forward to helping him develop his game further”.

Graham Robson is a product of the Stars junior development setup and someone Foster has high hopes for. “This will be Graham’s first full senior season. He has gained some valuable experience over the last two years and in turn scored some important goals. He came all the way through junior development with Alex Lawson, Callum Davies and Michael Elder so he in an integral part of the club heading into the future”.

The TDC Stars welcome the Nottingham Lions (Saturday at 6.30pm) and Solway Sharks (Sunday at 5.30pm) to the Metro Radio Arena this weekend. Tickets are available on the door priced at £5.00 for adults with under 16’s receiving free admittance.