Fans are a vital part of our team, says coach
Sep 25 2010 by Sean Hownam, The Journal
NEWCASTLE Vipers player/coach Danny Stewart says the home atmosphere at Whitley Bay could give his side the lift they need against the Belfast Giants, as captain Paul Sample takes on his former club.
The Giants come to town today before the Vipers face a tough away tie against the Edinburgh Capitals tomorrow.
Vipers are boosted by the return of Blair Stayzer and Nathan Salem, but are without Kyle Sibley – though coach Stewart thinks it’s the Viper’s fan base that will propel the side.
“The fans are very important, they’re like a sixth man out there on the ice,” he said.
“They’re so loud and when they are lifted it really lifts us.
“It’s obviously a lot harder on the road and especially at Edinburgh, where they have a different surface of ice.
“We are also pleased that Nathan (Salem) has recovered from his injury and will be on the forward lines this weekend.”
Referring to Sibley’s absence, who misses Saturday’s game for a wedding, Stewart said: “Kyle had this commitment from before we signed him.
“The plus is that Blair (Stayzer) is back and will take his place in defence, and I will spot in when necessary as I did last weekend.”
Stewart also believes his team’s attitude will help them prosper this weekend, adding: “Hockey is such a team sport; off the ice as well as on and it’s a big advantage to have. Teams can have problems with guys that are selfish, but not us.
“Paul Sample is one of those good guys. He gives us something extra – he’s an experienced British league player; a great character and that is why he was named captain. He’s huge.”
Sample will be playing against the team he left in 2009, after temporarily retiring from hockey to move back home with his new-born daughter. And Belfast general manager Todd Kelman was full of compliments for the Newcastle-born star.
“Samps is a great guy and we are going to miss him in Belfast. I would say that Samps was one of my all-time favourite team-mates and a big part of our team last season,” he said. “Guys like him bring teams together and his true value is much more than what he ever brought to the ice.”
Today’s game will also see ex-Viper Colin Shields leading the Giants’ forward line as he makes a return to the North East.
