We can’t compete with the big boys

Mar 25 2010 by Stuart Rayner, The Journal

DEPARTING coach Rob Wilson has warned the Newcastle Vipers are years away from competing on an equal footing with the Elite League’s big guns.

Wilson announced on Tuesday this will be his last season in charge but he will continue to co-own the franchise – even if he is coaching a rival team.

The current campaign has been tough for the Vipers, whose wrestle with the credit crunch was further handicapped when landlords Newcastle Arena could not accommodate them for its final four months.

A temporary move to Whitley Bay hit attendances hard and revenue harder.

The Vipers hope soon to conclude a deal to return to the Arena next season, but will remain one of the league’s poor relations until they have their own rink.

Wilson, who bought the club with then-team-mate Paul Ferone five years ago, said: “We need to have a permanent venue.

“We will not be able to compete financially with the big clubs for a few years.