Lee Valley Lions

After a two year stint in the US, Nathan joined the Lions last summer and put up over a point per game in the 23/24 season.

What will our #22 do this season?

Coach Jonesy’s comments: “Nathan is a high-level player both in terms of skill and hockey IQ.

He had some fantastic moments in key games for us last season and got fans out of their seats on multiple occasions.

Nathan is another player that brings a calmness to the team on and off the ice and his experience of having played at a high level as a junior shines through.

Nathan is an excellent team mate and spends time speaking with other players about their game and helping them take steps forward in their development.

I am excited to work with Nathan and the talent that he brings.”

Photo: Phil Hutchinson

It just wouldn’t be Lee Valley without James Joseph, who signs on for the 24/25 season.

Welcome back to the face of Lee Valley!

Coach Jonesy’s comment: “James is Lee Valley’s longest-serving player and is first all-time in appearances.

It goes without saying that he is a leader amongst the group.

His experience brings a calmness to any situation and his love of the game is obvious to anyone that speaks to him about ice hockey.

James is driven to see the team succeed and his work ethic and commitment sets him apart.

His selfless attitude is invaluable as we seek more success as well as continue to develop talent across the roster.”

Photo: Phil Hutchinson

We “cap” off the week with some more good news as defenceman Matt Hamilton returns for the 24/25 season, stepping into captaincy after a year as an alternate captain.

Coach Jonesy’s comments: “Matt has been a key part of the team in recent seasons and has grown into a leader of the group.

He has great experience having played in NIHL South 1 and that experience is clear in how calm a presence he is on and off the ice.

Having played extensively with Matt I know first-hand that he has a high hockey IQ and reads the game as well as anyone.

This will be crucial to our next steps as a team this coming season.”

Photo: Phil Hutchinson

We’re starting Canada Day off right with the re-signing of former OHL draftee, and last season’s top point scorer, #5 Matt Ganas!

Matt put up 19 goals and 9 assists for a total of 28 points in 14 games played last season.

Coach Jonesy’s comments: “The minute the 2023-24 season drew to a close I had a conversation with Matt about 2024-25.

He was without doubt our standout player last season and brought a lot to the team on and off the ice.

He is a fantastic player and is excellent in the dressing room as a role model and mentor for other players.

I’m excited to work with Matt this year, his love of the game is infectious and we are very happy Matt is a Lion again this year.”

Photo: Andrew Moss

After retiring as a player at the end of the 2023-24 season, Simon Jones steps into the full time head coaching role for the 2024-25 season.

He wasn’t gone for long, welcome back Jonesy!

Coach Jonesy’s comments: “I am very pleased to be returning to Lee Valley as coach.

Over the last 3 seasons the club have allowed me to take on more responsibility in training which has made this step a natural progression.

I am eager to build upon the foundations we laid last season in opening the new rink and celebrating some big wins in front of a growing number of supporters.

I am excited to continue to work with players that will be returning as well as some new players joining us for 2024-25.”

Photo: Phil Hutchinson