Leeds Knights: Rising Star Jonas Bennett looking bo build on memorable first year

Head coach Ryan Aldridge had warned the then 16-year-old he may have to be patient before getting his chance for quality ice time at NIHL National level, the common-held belief in coaching circles being that it often takes defencemen longer to develop than forwards.

But that other coaching mantra that if they are good enough, they are old enough was called into play when injuries to import defenceman Matt Staudacher, Lewis Baldwin and Jordan Griffin led Aldridge to give Sheffield-born Bennett his chance higher up the defensive pairings.

It was an opportunity Bennett seized with both hands, showing his obvious know-how allied with a composure many thought beyond his years almost immediately, to the point where he spent most of the rest of the season playing alongside replacement import D, Sam Dunn.

Throw into the mix his Gb Under-20 and Under-18 call-ups and it was clearly a year to remember for the youngster who, it was announced on Friday evening, will be staying at Elland Road Ice Arena for a further year.

“He was phenomenal,” said Aldridge, of a player who posted three goals and four assists in 49, league, Cup and play-off appearances for the Knights.

“He got thrown in at the deep end pretty early and learned to swim pretty quick but he was outstanding for us all year and ended up being a player that we missed in the line-up when he wasn’t available.

“He is calm in all situations, reads the game well, has great gap and a great stick.

“He is a mature young man who soaks up everything that is offered to him. Like all our young guys, Jonas has a very bright future and we are glad to be a part of that.”

Bennett, who won a silver medal with GB Under-20s and a bronze with the Under-18s, said: “I’m delighted to be returning for another season.

“The support from the fans, staff, and my teammates has been incredible, and I’m excited to continue building on what we achieved last year.”