Simmonds feeling the Storm spirit

Returning Manchester Storm forward Scott Simmonds knows the fanbase will still be with them for the Elite Series.

The 27-year-old is the latest player to commit to Ryan Finnerty’s side for the competition, which is due to start in two weeks’ time as they continue to build their roster.

And Simmonds was more than happy to come back for the side he iced for in 2019/20, where he picked up 28 points in 60 games.

“It’s a pleasure to put the Manchester Storm jersey on once again,” he said. “Although no fans in the arena, we know Storm fans will be with us.

“We’ve all seen the love on social media so far and I’m looking forward to joining up with my teammates in what will be an exciting series.”

BREAKING | Manchester Storm are thrilled to announce the return of Scott Simmonds to the club for the #2021EliteSeries! ⛈️#WeAreStorm | #Manchester | #ATTWWY pic.twitter.com/bt1KERHWZO

— Manchester Storm | #TakeShelter (@Mcr_Storm) March 19, 2021

Simmonds first joined Storm in 2019 after spending three years with the University of Guelph Gryphons and has represented Canada at the Universiade, where he picked up a bronze medal in 2016.

His coach, Ryan Finnerty, was pleased to bring back another player who did well for him during the aborted 2019/20 campaign.

“If you look at the best sides in the EIHL, they build a roster around their core players. Scott for us, is definitely one of those guys and off-ice he is an absolute professional.

“I know the fans loved watched Scott play, he just has this boundless energy and is great on the penalty kill and face-off dot.

“I’m delighted to have the opportunity to coach him again and I know he has been keeping extremely fit during this extended lay-over.”