Two of the Solway Sharks are heading East to represent Great Britain next week, as they travel to Vilnius in Lithuania to take part in the IIHF Under 20s World Championships.

Sharks coach Martin Grubb takes charge as Head Coach of the GB team, while 17 year old Sharks defenceman Liam Stenton takes a place in the team.  Sharks forward Ruairi Lockerbie is on the list of reserves for the tournament, meaning he will be on standby to travel if needed.

Grubb, who is already extremely experienced as a national coach, steps up from his position as coach of GB U18s last season, and is hopeful of success in Vilnius.

Sharks Coach Jamie Thomson said, “A Great Britain call-up is a fantastic achievement for these players, and a great reflection on the local club.  They have competed against the best players in the country to earn their GB selection, and being named in the team or the reserve list is a justified reward for all their hard work.  It is a testament to their level of skill, all the hard work they put in on and off the ice, and to their positive attitudes.  The fact that our club Head Coach holds such a senior position in the GB set-up speaks volumes about the regard he is held in nationally, and his level of expertise. I am sure they will do themselves, the club and the country proud in Lithuania, and we all wish the GB team every success.”

Solway Sharks Chairman Ian Bryden commented, “We at the Club are delighted that yet again our coaching staff and players are involved in the Great Britain set up.  As a provincial club to have our Head Coach Martin Grubb appointed as the GB under 20s coach and to also have players selected to represent their country is a great honour for them and testament to the hard work that they put in.  The level and skill of the ice hockey played by the Sharks at the Ice Bowl demonstrates the calibre of the coaching provided by Martin and his coaching team.  It allows the club to attract and develop young players and provides them the opportunity to compete at the highest level.”

Photo credit to Helen Hobbins photography.