Braehead Clan have announced the return of Brendan Brooks to the club as Player/Assistant Coach.
Brooks first joined the Clan in 2015 and played for one season, scoring 22 goals and 27 assists as well as icing in the Champions Hockey League.
He moved to Fife Flyers last summer adding another 21 goals to his Elite League tally, before winning promotion with Great Britain at their World Championship tournament in Belfast.
Brooks said: “It’s good to be back – we’d been talking about it and it’s where it all started for me in my career in the UK and I’m very happy to be returning.
“I could never say anything bad about my time at Braehead the first time and that’s why it made it hard for me to leave.
“Working with John (Tripp), we never played together, but I remember playing against him and he was a hard-working guy and a tough opponent.
“That’s going to be something he’ll demand of his team. He’ll ask a lot from the guys, which is the way to be and that’s how you’re successful.
“I’m looking forward to working with John. We’ve talked quite a lot on the phone already and we have the same outlook on the game – it’s something that’s very exciting.
“I felt I had a good season individually at Fife last year in a very tough and competitive league. I really enjoyed my time there, but I’m excited to be coming home.
Clan’s Hockey and Operations Director Gareth Chalmers added: “”I’m certain the news of Brendan Brooks returning to the club will be welcomed by the Purple Army and we’re certainly glad to have him back.
“Brendan was immensely popular during his first spell here and scored plenty of goals, so his contribution to this season’s team will be hugely vital.
“We wanted someone with experience of the Elite League and someone who can play as well as act as an assistant to John. When we looked at possible candidates, Brendan stood out.
“It’s a change in our coaching set-up and I’m more than confident Brendan and John will work well together as we chase our aim of winning trophies.
“To that end, I want to extend my thanks to Richard Hartmann, who was assistant coach to Ryan Finnerty for the last two seasons.
“He played a key role for the team over the last couple of years in assisting with Ryan and we wish him well for the future.”
(Image permission: Al Goold Photo)
Stuart McMillan
7th June 2017 at 5:57 pm
Delighted to have Brooksy back where he belongs. Phenomenal player during the 2015/16 season for Braehead Clan. A superb signing by new coach John Tripp. Welcome back Brendan!!