Pre-Season Preview: Part 2
We’ve made it clear — the 2025/26 season is not a rebuild. It’s an evolution. Since regaining the rink in 2022, the club has had a clear plan and direction, and that plan is on track. We know who we are — and more importantly, who we want to be.
That doesn’t mean the journey has been without its bumps. This past week, we said goodbye to two players who’ve played a big part in the recent history of our club. Alex Parry, a second-generation Dragon who’s always worn the badge with pride, has chosen to take on a new challenge. A true competitor, Alex gave everything to this team — and we thank him for his commitment and passion. Once a Dragon, always a Dragon.
Gary Simpson also moves on after joining the club midway through last season. He brought stability and experience in a difficult period, and while his time here was shorter, we recognise the role he played and wish him the very best for the future.
But for every door that closes, another opens.
This week, we proudly announced four more names for the 2025/26 roster — three familiar faces who’ve committed to our project for the long term, and one new addition who brings size, power and presence to the blue line.
MJ Clancy, Charles Phillips and Ryan Jones have each re-signed on two-year deals, and that’s not just a boost for our roster — it’s a statement. These players aren’t just coming back for another lap. They’re invested in the project, they believe in what’s building here, and they want to be a part of the journey. Two-year deals give us consistency, momentum and confidence.
Joining them is defenceman Ethan Moyoh, who arrives from the Blackburn Hawks. Ethan is a commanding, reliable D-man with the kind of physical edge that fans love and teammates trust. He already has experience playing alongside Charles Phillips — so that partnership has the potential to be solid right from the first drop of the puck. It’s another piece of the puzzle, and it fits beautifully.
This is what evolution looks like. Not just names on a roster, but players who understand the mission and bring a mixture of loyalty, chemistry and hunger to the dressing room.
That belief isn’t limited to the players. It’s in the stands, too.
In the first 24 hours of season ticket sales, over 50 tickets were snapped up. That’s not normal. That’s Deeside. That’s fans who feel something. Who believe in the evolution of this club. Whether you’re returning for another season or stepping through the doors for the first time, your support is everything. The fire in the team starts with the fire in the crowd. You’ve proved once again that this club isn’t just built by management or players — it’s built by the people in the stands.
Behind the scenes, the pace hasn’t slowed for a second. Since the end of last season, the management team — all volunteers — have worked tirelessly. From recruitment to sponsorship, from admin to marketing, from logistics to planning, every detail has been pushed forward with one goal: to make this club stronger. There’s been no break. Just belief, drive, and an unshakable sense of duty to keep Deeside pushing forward.
But no evolution is complete without recognising where we’ve come from and what we’ve lost.
With the retirements of two club legends — Snip and Larry — we’d normally expect to see young Deeside players stepping up, ready to fill the void. But the truth is, the two years we lost while the rink was closed created a gap. A lost chapter in our junior development story. And it’s a gap that’s still being felt now.
That said, the future is bright. Very bright.
Our junior club is now bursting with talent at every age group. You only have to watch the U10s, U12s, U14s, U16s, and U18s to see what’s coming. There’s energy, there’s fire, and there’s quality in abundance. In the next season or two, we fully expect to see these young Dragons emerging through the Dragons 2 and Steel 4 structures Deeside Dragons, ready to take the step and fill the jersey. Ready to make their mark.
Because the next Ross Kennedy… the next Snip… the next Larry… they’re already in our system. Already putting in the work. Already dreaming of pulling on that senior jersey in front of a packed house.
We’re not just building for this season. We’re building for the next ten.
This is Deeside. This is the evolution.
Steel. Sweat. And the Dragon Way.
Season ticket sales have already started strong, with over 50 sold in the first 24 hours — a fantastic show of support from the Dragons faithful. If you’re planning to secure your place for the 2025/26 season, don’t wait too long! The Easy Pay option, making it easier than ever to spread the cost, will close on 6th July 2025. After that date, Easy Pay will no longer be available. Single payment season tickets will still be on sale until 24th August 2025, but if you want to lock in your ticket with flexible payments, now is the time to act. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be part of the Dragon fire—grab your Easy Pay season ticket today and get ready for another thrilling season!
