Ice hockey: Ayr Bruins stalwarts back youngsters

Sep 10 2010 by Mike WIlson, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

IT was old meets new at Ayr Ice Rink as a host of past players from the golden era of the Ayr Bruins met up with the latest crop of youngsters to play under the club name.

The stalwarts of the 70s and 80s were there to promote the resurgence of the sport in the town.

It’s hoped the return to the instantly recognisable Bruins name will encourage more kids to come and try out the sport and follow the great tradition the town has for producing top-quality teams across the age groups.

The club is seeking players to join the U10, U12 and U14 teams and if sufficient eligible numbers were interested, an U16 team could also be formed.

Anyone interested in playing or coaching should contact Caroline McClelland on 07789 707412 for more details. Training is on a Friday at Ayr Ice Rink in Limekiln Road between 6.30pm and 8.30pm.

The fledgling Bruins club is forging strong links with Scotland's newest elite ice hockey league team, the Braehead Clan, and this will see some top-class players from the Clan visit the training session on Friday (September 10) to pass on hints and tips to the young Ayr teams.

They will also be available for autographs and pictures at the session so this is an ideal opportunity to get to meet professional players and learn from their vast experience.

The club is also holding an open skating session on Saturday, September 18 between 3.30pm and 5.30pm, something that hasn't been available in the town since the closure of the Centrum.

Entry to the session is free but donations to assist with the running of the new club would be welcome. So dig out those skates, get along to the rink and enjoy yourself, and show your support for your local club at the same time.

One lucky person will skate off with two tickets to a Braehead Clan home game. Ayr Bruins Junior Ice Hockey Club thank the Braehead Clan for their support and generosity.