Vipers' new era as O'Connor returns

Mar 30 2010 by Stuart Rayner, The Journal

IF VICTOR Kiam claimed to like Remington shavers so much he bought the company, the same can be said in reverse of returning Vipers chairman Paddy O’Connor.

The ex-Durham Wasps star has been so unimpressed by the standard of ice hockey since he left for personal reasons three years ago, he has put some of his own money in.

O’Connor promised to bring the entertainment back with him.

“This is a new era,” he declared. “There are changes to be made and I’m quite prepared to make them. Number one was to get the team back playing at the (Newcastle) Arena, and we’ve managed to do that.

“Secondly we must appoint a head coach. Initial enquiries have been very encouraging, we’ve had quite a few applications.

“The long-term challenge is to secure the future of the club and we must have a facility to promote it from. I’ve reinvested in the club and there’s some positive news to come.

“But next year we will be aiming to ensure the product alters, that will definitely be one of my main priorities.” O’Connor has kept a close eye on the Vipers since cutting ties and has not been impressed.