Thursday holds the key to Belfast Giants’ future

The Stena Line Belfast Giants, together with the Odyssey Trust under the guidance of General Manager Todd Kelman are set to ‘reveal all’ this Thursday night in the W5 wing of the Odyssey Arena complex.

After the shock departure of Doug Christiansen to Belfast’s arch rivals Sheffield, as well as the other unusual goings-on during last season, it looks as if there will be a clean slate commencing with the announcement of the Giants’ new coach.

In a new all encompassing direction for the Giants’ season ticket holders, they have been invited to an exclusive event this Thursday, 9th May at 6.30pm which will also include access to the fantastic activities at W5.

The event gives the opportunity for them to meet the latest contracted players of the upcoming 2013-2014 campaign including a few who will be announced exclusively at this event as well as the announcement of the new coach.

It is hoped Stephen Murphy in feature back in goal together with Craig Peacock and Colin Shields on the forward line, ideally supported by star player Robby Sandrock spearheading the attack from a very mobile Giants’ defense.

Wishful and forward thinking perhaps, however a must to build a successful campaign under the new ownership of the Odyssey Trust.

We are assured the new coach will be announced and in fact be present as General Manager Todd Kelman and the Odyssey Trust will be expecting a cacophony of flash bulbs to be lighting up the Belfast skyline on Thursday night, making the most of a great photo opportunity with players and other surprise guests.

The Odyssey will also be there to discuss their plan for the future of hockey in Northern Ireland.

The question remains, do the Giants go the route of other Elite League teams and swap coaches like Christiansen to the Steelers, Finnerty from Sheffield to Braehead Clan and then maybe Paul Gardner from the Clan to Belfast to complete the triangle?

Or, bring back Dave Whistle, who in fact would be very happy to return to Belfast again. (Whistle moved from Bracken Bees Super League champions to the then-new start up team of the Giants at the start of real hockey in Belfast over ten years ago).

Would it be a hard sell making a former player and coach of both Sheffield and Nottingham – that of Paul Adey – acceptable to the Giants’ faithful? One can only guess that outcome.

However could it even be a young, aspiring, hard working and dedicated EPL coach looking to make the step up now that his playing days are nearing the end?

With the wage cap in mind, and wanting to run a tight ship under the watchful eyes of Todd Kelman and the Odyssey Trust I would have thought a former player within the Super League or Elite and EPL League experience person would more than likely be the choice for a Giants’ reboot of their now high profile team.

In the meantime, season ticket holders are invited to bring their kids for free as access to the event will also include the chance to explore some of W5’s interactive exhibit areas and discover The Lost World, W5’s new laser tag experience.

So be prepared to be chosen to join ‘Team Phillips’ or ‘Team Garside’ to take part in an epic laser tag battle. Or simply enjoy a little food and, for those over 18, a pint of Harp Lager, thanks to Diageo NI, and spend some time in the company of the Giants!