The Solway Sharks are pleased to announce the return of former Whitley Warriors and Aberdeen Lynx defenceman, Christian Johnston for the 2022-23 season.

Johnston returns to the Sharks after being part of the treble winning team from last season and playing his part with 1 goal and 7 assists in 14 games but did have to miss the business end of the season due to the nature of his job and is desperate to be part of our team this season and experience that success.

The 27-year-old, Tynemouth born defenceman is a product of the Whitley junior program and he graduated to the Warriors before making the move to the SNL and Aberdeen Lynx where he went on to captain the side before making the move to the Sharks last season. He has also played for the Northern Conference from U11 to U17 at the EIHA conference tournament as well as representing GB in 2 Universiade games.

CJ is a smooth skating, puck handling defenceman who sees the ice well and can make things happen and this quickly established him as a favourite with the fans last season. He is a player who makes a good pass and plays the game with his head up to read the game well and we are delighted he is back as a Shark around his work commitments.

On his return to the club, CJ commented “I am delighted to be back as a Shark as I really enjoyed last season although I was frustrated, I couldn’t help the team finish of the season in style, but the boys did a great job. I was made to feel welcome straight away last year and that allowed me to enjoy playing the game and showcase how I could help the team reach our goals and I hope to be able to contribute as much as I can this season. Martin and JT have been great to play for and know my situation and are happy working around things so that makes things so much easier for me to just concentrate on playing. I can’t wait to be back on the ice with the boys and start winning for our excellent fans”.

Sharks Head Coach Martin Grubb added “CJ is a guy we really wanted back as I think he gives us something completely from the back end. He skates well, can make plays, and can play in all 3 zones and he is a great guy to have around. We know his work situation and we would rather have CJ than not have him and he is happy with that. I wanted to get CJ here long before last season and I think our players and supporters seen exactly why last season and we would love for him to be part of our celebrations this season if we can reach our goals again. We are happy to welcome CJ back and having him back with us for another year will make our team stronger. His only goal of last season was a huge point in our season as it was the OT game winner v Solihull and we look forward to more moments like that this season”.

CJ will wear the number 11 jersey that has become familiar for him for the upcoming season and his jerseys are available to own and loan now. Please email sharkssecretary@aol.com to discuss the owned and loaned packages available.

Stay tuned to our website and social media platforms for more Sharks news and information on the league structure, fixtures, and all things Sharks as we get it.