Braehead Clan forward Bari McKenzie is back for a second season – and has set his sights on silverware.

The 29-year-old is Clan’s second signing of the off-season as Head Coach Ryan Finnerty sets about building his team for a new campaign.

McKenzie admits the league is getting harder, but says he’s ready for the challenge.

“A club like Braehead needs to be challenging for honours,” he said. “We know that and we know where we went wrong last year.

“We lost the league by five points and I believe the team Ryan will recruit will be more physical. He knows what’s expected and what it takes to win.

“I genuinely believe we have what it takes to be up there next season. Just now I’m looking forward to meeting up with my teammates, whoever they’ll be, and getting going.

“The league’s getting better every year and is getting harder. As a Brit you have to up your game, and as much as I enjoyed it last season it was really hard.

“There were some great players in the league and I believe the Elite League will only get better next year. I’m up to the challenge and I’m looking forward to it.”

Bari’s move to Clan was a dream come true last year after arriving from a two-year stint at Dundee Stars and after reflecting on last season, he says he’s happy to continue to do what’s asked of him next season.

He added: “Last year was brilliant. Starting with the Champions League and finishing with winning the Conference in the last regular season game was great.

“We fell short by going out of the Challenge Cup and the play-offs, but overall I really enjoyed the experience of playing in front of the Purple Army.

“I was made to feel welcome, everyone was great with me and I’m delighted to be back for the new season.

“I’ve said it before, but I don’t mind the role I have or what I’m asked to do – I’m just pleased to be part of the team.”

(Image permission: Al Goold Photo)