Coventry Blaze have confirmed defenseman David Clements and back-up netminder Renny Marr will return to the club for the 2016/17 season.

Clements was originally part of a two-way contract between MK Lightning and Blaze last season, but after impressing at the Elite League club he accepted the opportunity to join his home-town team on a full-time basis.

He said: “I couldn’t be happier to be back in Coventry for next season. I feel like I’m ready for this opportunity and want to play at this level. I can’t wait to get started in August.”

Marr joined Blaze last summer from the Fife Flyers and will once again provide back-up to Canadian netminder Brian Stewart.

“I’m glad to be spending another season with the Blaze and I am looking forward to working with Brian again,” said Marr.

“I’m also excited to be playing under Danny Stewart and I look forward to being back in a professional environment.”

Stewart, who took over as Blaze boss on Wednesday, said he was delighted to secure both players for another year.

“Getting David back for a full season here in Coventry is great for both parties,” he said.

“Whilst still young and early in his professional career, hopefully he can progress into a GB international quality player.

“He has a good right hand shot, is a puck moving defenseman and also comes with good size and a head for the game.

“He’s very reliable already at a young age and is only going to get better with increased ice time.

“Renny is continuing to develop into a young talent here in Britain and hopefully another year at the Elite Level will progress him even more.

“He provides us with a reliable option behind Stewy and is someone who can be called upon when needed.

“That’s important with the league continuing to grow and it will be up to me to find him minutes in net as game time is what will make him better.”

(Image permission: Scott Wiggins)