Featured in the paper every Thursday, Bracknell Bees head coach Doug Sheppard gives his latest views on Bracknell’s season on and off the ice in an exclusive column.
SCORING nine goals away from home last Sunday against Invicta has set us up for some exciting games in the Hive over the coming weeks.
We had been on a poor away run and many games had been low scoring. Now we’ll go into our back to back fixtures next weekend against Swindon with confidence.
INTERVIEW: Sheppard says new signing Tyler VanKleef will “make a big difference”

We know these will be hard-fought with both teams looking to attack when possible. But the entertainment will not be just on the ice.
The School Zone has been a great success, introducing young fans and families to Hockey Night at the Hive. It’s normally the loudest part of the rink. Next Sunday we expect them to join both sets of fans in our Christmas Jumper competition. There’ll be a prize for the loudest outfit.
We’ll also be holding our “Toss the Teddy Bear” event. When we score our first goal, fans will throw their Teddy Bears on to the ice. These are collected and will find their way to a local charity.
Don’t forget we’ll be raising money for Young Epilepsy as we bring the New Year in with challenge games home and away against Swindon.
We’ve been working hard to build a sense of community this season, bringing fans and players closer. It is also important for us to reach out to the local community and be seen as having a useful contribution to make.
For many fans, Sunday will be the first time they see our new import, Tyler VanKleef, on the ice. I am sure he will be made to feel welcome.
On behalf of Bracknell Bees, we wish you all a Happy Christmas and a healthy and successful 2019. Thank you to everyone who has got the Hive buzzing.
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