The Haringey Huskies have set out plans for the brand-new team taking to the ice in the National Ice Hockey League South Two this season.

The team will take the place of the Haringey Racers, who have been playing in the league, since reforming in 2013.

Former Racers captain Alastair Band said: “Everyone is super excited and there is a real buzz around the team, just like when the Racers originally come back.

“David Richards, who reformed the Haringey Racers in 2013, deserves a lot of credit for bringing senior hockey back to the palace.

“Without his valiant efforts we would not be where we are today.

“However, to align the senior team with the junior club a fresh start was needed to restart the relationship.”

The Huskies are a completely new team under new ownership with big plans to introduce the junior system players into the team in the future.

“All the junior teams are doing really well and we want to give them a senior team to play in,” Band added.

“We have always really struggled with most of our players travelling in from Chelmsford and Guildford - I was the only one in the team who had actually played for the juniors last season.”

The Alexandra Palace-based outfit will take on the likes of Basingstoke Buffalo, Bristol Pitbulls, Bracknell Hornets, Cardiff Fire, Chelmsford Chieftains, Guildford Phoenix, Lee Valley Lions, Invicta Mustangs, Oxford City Stars, Peterborough Islanders, Slough Jets, Solent Devils and Swindon Wildcats.

“We want to be pushing for playoffs, but it will be a rebuilding season,” he said.

“With the new league format no longer being divided east and west this opens up a whole host of challenges, but also brings greater exposure for any potential sponsors and a much more varied game night experience for the fans.”

The team has already announced the signings of Stuart Appleby and Stephen Woodford in the last week, but is hoping to announce more in the coming weeks.

“We have agreed terms in principle with a number of players, and are in talks several more, in order to build a strong and competitive team.”

If you would like to be a part of the team or sponsor the club email haringeyhuskies@gmail.com.