This weekend will see Streatham take on Milton Keynes Thunder in a league clash that before the turn of the year looked like it could play a big part in the relegation dogfight. Thankfully some excellent form from Streatham in 2013 has ensured that the Redskins are looking upwards rather than below them these days.
We caught up with former Redskins player Simon Howard, who is now Head Coach of the Thunder to hear his memories of Streatham and thoughts on the current season.
What was your first Redskins game?
My first game for the Redskins would I been as a 15 year old v Lee Valley in 1988 still a junior and playing right wing and from memory played with David Heath and Andrew Sparks and scored twice.
Which Redskins were your heroes growing up?
Robin Andrew was my defensive hero and Gary Stefan, who I have a picture with when I was about 7. A few years later Craig Melancon was my forward hero and my first mentor as a junior.
What do you think of the Redskins new rink?
It felt sad last season to play at the old high road rink but just as sad to see it in such a state especially as I had witnessed the amazing atmosphere in the late 70s and 80s. The new rink is ideal and a blueprint for the any new ice rink in the UK.
How are things at Milton Keynes this year ?
The Thunder as a whole as underachieved if we are honest with ourselves however the league has once again moved on and if you are not the clubs first team you have no financial backing to compete.
This season though has seen some emerging talent with Connor Goode stepping up to play for the Lightning and Nidal Phillips, Cam McGiffen and Jordan Hedley all becoming better through regular ice time. We have a few games left to put some performances together and barring disaster go into the playoffs with nothing to lose and see if we can upset the odds.
Tickets are available for this Sundays game against MK Thunder, face off is at 18.45.
