Bruce Richardson (still) Panthers #9!

The first signing news of the off season was a cracking one for the Panthers as Bruce Richardson (Pictured left, Photo by Rob Vernon) has signed for another season.

Firstly the facts. Bruce ended the season with 14+47 for 61 points in 61 games at an average of 1 point per game. He accumulated 133 minutes in penalties throughout the season.

Now for my opinion. I am over the bloody moon with this signing, Bruce is the real deal, a genuine leader. His agitating skills are among the best in the league and his sheer will to win, effort and never say die attitude is exactly what the team need. In my opinion we haven’t had a player in this mould since Ross Lambert in the mid 1990’s. His role as Assistant Coach will also be invaluable to Corey Neilson during the recruitment process this summer, he’ll be sure to target players who mirror his attitude.

As expected, the reaction to the news has been incredibly positive. The Evening Post report is here and the News from the Panthers official site is here. The Cage thread with the news is here.

Great start to the 2009/2010 roster, let’s hope they are all of this calibre.