Campbell vows to impress Vipers

Jun 1 2007 By Stuart Rayner, The Journal

Derek Campbell earned his place on the Vipers' first line for next season by putting them to the sword in 2006-07.

The 27-year-old left winger (pictured above) has joined the Newcastle-based outfit after impressing against them for Manchester Phoenix last term. He scored five goals and four assists against the Vipers in an overall tally of 26 goals and 45 assists from 59 games.

The Ontarian is a prototype Vipers player - as illustrated by the 241 minutes he spent in the penalty box last season. "Derek was a highly sought-after player following a good season with Manchester," said coach Rob Wilson of his latest signing. "To have him sign is a great boost for this club. He's shown he can score goals in this league, and added to that he's pretty tough in his own right. All in all, a great fit for our team this coming season."

Wilson plans to field the 6ft 1in winger alongside David Longstaff and a new import centre in his first-choice forward line.

Campbell revealed his performances against Vipers had left an equally good impression on him.

"I've heard good things about the way the club is going on and off the ice, and also about the city and the fans," he said. "When I played against them last season I got the impression they were a better team than their league position suggested. I had a pretty good time personally against the Vipers and I want to continue that form this year."

Campbell has also played for, among others, Belleville Bulls, Owen Sound Platers, Fort Wayne Komets, Kingston Frontenacs, St Thomas University, Binghamton Senators and Elmira Jackals.

He is another new signing whose arrival was apparently swung by the offer of further education as part of the package.