Good morning, Storm Fans!

I hope you’re all well and getting back to some sort of a new ‘NORMAL’ as Boris says.

It has been a very hectic and challenging time for everyone over the last 5-6 months but I hope we are seeing some light at the end of the tunnel with regards to sporting events. There have been many rumours circulating over the last couple of weeks regarding the 20/21 season and players, clubs financials etc. I therefore thought it prudent to give you an update on the Storm as well as the picture of the EIHL in general.

Ryan and myself have had numerous conversations over the last few weeks in regards to both players we currently have under contract as well as players we have given offers to. Considering the current situation in the UK we came to the conclusion to give them an option to start exploring the opportunity of employment outside of the UK and the EIHL. This was by no means an easy call; however, with the current situation of local lockdowns, rinks being closed and travel bans, we thought it was only fair to give players the chance to gain employment elsewhere and earn a living.

Ryan has been in close contact with both players and agents, in order to make sure they have the best opportunity to find a job if needed. We are still hopeful for a December start; however, with a lot of restrictions still in place that are affecting rinks and indoor arenas, the EIHL Board of Directors have put September 15th as the final date to make a decision on whether or not it is possible for all teams to start the season in December.

There is a possibility that start dates could be pencilled in for a Jan/Feb start, but again this all depends on guidance from the UK Government and local authorities on indoor sporting events being allowed crowds up to a certain level. In the unfortunate case that the EIHL is not able to start the season in either December or Jan/Feb, I can assure you that all 10 teams are committed to the 2021/22 season.

All of the owners have made plans for every eventuality and we are no different here in Manchester. We have plans in place that would enable us to maintain all our staff while still growing and pushing the club forward into the next season. This would not be possible if it wasn’t for the support of YOU buying tickets for the online raffles, Manchester Storm lottery and of course purchasing merchandise through the Storm Sports store. It is very much appreciated.

I also want to sincerely thank our sponsors who again have gone above and beyond in helping us through this troubled time. We cannot wait to welcome YOU ALL back down to the ‘Shelter’ as soon as we can.

Finally, a heartfelt ‘Thank-You’ to our dedicated season ticket holders. We really appreciate your patience with everything that has been going on; we have already explained why we have not taken any payments yet and we will not be doing so until we have official confirmation of the EIHL’s definitive start date.

Please stay safe, social distance and let’s get hockey back as soon as we can!

Jamie Tunstall