Leeds Chiefs’ potential convinces Ross Kennedy to make NIHL National switch

NEW Leeds Chiefs’ defenceman Ross Kennedy got a taste of playing at Elland Road Ice Rink last season and is desperate for the opportunity to skate out in front of home fans.
Ross Kennedy, in action for Blackburn Hawks. Picture courtesy of Colin Lawson.Ross Kennedy, in action for Blackburn Hawks. Picture courtesy of Colin Lawson.
Ross Kennedy, in action for Blackburn Hawks. Picture courtesy of Colin Lawson.

The 22-year-old blue liner played twice for Telford Tigers in West Yorkshire against his future employers, following up a dramatic 3-2 overtime loss to the Chiefs in early February with a 4-3 triumph a month later.

Kennedy was impressed with the noise generated by the home fans in a rink that back then was still only half-open.

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And while the likelihood is that any season that takes place in 2020-21 will be subject to some kind of social distancing in terms of spectators, Kennedy is convinced it will still provide a brilliant atmosphere.

Ross Kennedy challenges Leeds Chiefs' Adam Barnes at Elland Road last season. Picture courtesy of Mark Ferriss.Ross Kennedy challenges Leeds Chiefs' Adam Barnes at Elland Road last season. Picture courtesy of Mark Ferriss.
Ross Kennedy challenges Leeds Chiefs' Adam Barnes at Elland Road last season. Picture courtesy of Mark Ferriss.

“It is a brilliant rink, you could tell that last season – even when it was only half-open,” said Kennedy. “The atmosphere was great, even when playing against Leeds, so it will be even better to play for the Chiefs with that crowd behind us.”

Kennedy may have swapped life on a championship-winning roster for a team that finished bottom of the standings last time out in NIHL National, but he is convinced he is joining an organisation with bags of potential.

“I’m impressed with the team Sam is putting together and we’ll be able to compete with everyone else,” he added.

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“There is a lot of potential in Leeds and we’ll hopefully get more fans through the door with each passing week.”

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