The Lee Valley Lions had their end of season get together on Saturday, and presented three awards for the season. Most Improved Player, Coach’s Player and Players’ Player of the Year.

The winners were…

Most Improved Player: James Andrew

This was James’ first year in competitive ice hockey after a couple of seasons with University of London Dragons. Despite being new to the league, James finished the season with an 88.74% Save percentage in all competitions.

Coach George Alley on James’ season.

“James’ made huge strides throughout the season, proving himself to be one of the best and most consistent goalies in the league by the end of 2016/17. It took him a few games to adjust to the league but once he settled he was fantastic for us.”

Coach’s Player: Simon Jones & Simon Geldart

His 2nd season as a Lion, Simon never missed a game for the team. He was only player to ice in every game (both league & cup) and increased his production from 1 point in 2015/16 to 13 points this season. He was the team’s highest scoring defence-man and joint 5th for points overall with Matthew Hepburn.

“Simon’s commitment to the team is second to none, he’s usually first to the rink for training and games and made a huge effort with his fitness in the off-season. I’m glad this has shown in his points tally and I’m looking forward to seeing even more improvement from Simon next year”

Simon Geldart completed his first full year at Lee Valley after joining in January 2016. The Billingham born & trained forward scored 10 points in 17 games for the Lions but also made a nuisance of himself to other teams with his physical style of play, what really stood out about Simon though was his leadership

“An outstanding leader, Geldart has been a rock for the team throughout the year.

“On and off the ice he’s gone above and beyond for his team mates.

“His contribution had to be recognised with Simon Jones as they have both set a great example for everyone involved in the club.”

Players’ Player: Nick Alley

The Lions’ Captain once again finished as the team’s top points scorer with 29 points in 23 games this season. His points total now sits at 154 points in all competitions for the team, taking him past Scott Beeson as the highest points scorer since the Lions reformed in 2005/06, and to 8th on the all time list of Lions’ points scorers.

Nick now sits just 1 point behind legendary defence-man and former Czech international Jaroslav Lycka.

“It goes without saying what his points have done for us, but Nick worked very hard to keep the team together last season and over the summer before I joined. He is one of the main reasons the players wanted to come back and play for us”.