PRE-SEASON: Tickets for our pre-season fixtures on Saturday 16th September and Wednesday 20th September are available online HERE, by calling 0161-926-8782 or in person at the Planet Ice Box Office! 

Manchester Storm are excited to announce the signing of experienced forward Will Merchant, most recently of Esbjerg Energy (Denmark). 

The 29-yer-old American forward attended the prestigious University of Maine from 2012-2016 who play in top-tier of college sports, NCAA. During this four-year tenure, Merchant represented his university on 136 occasions and created 39 points (22G 17A). 

The competitiveness of the league translated well into the professional ranks, as in his rookie campaign Merchant had 48 points (21G 27A) in 69 matches for Idaho Steelheads (ECHL). The Steelheads would be the franchise Merchant would spend the majority of his time in the ECHL with – as the forward made a total of 318 appearances in the division. 

In five years of ECHL hockey, Merchant tallied 195 points (89G 106A) before making the trip over to Europe for this first time in 2022. The winger’s decision to sign with Esbjerg Energy proved to be a good one, as the forward would be the team’s leading import points scorer. In 47 league games, Merchant had 16 goals and 9 assists – finishing joint top goal scorer for Esbjerg. 

The addition of the harden professional was welcomed by Head Coach, Matt Ginn, who said: “Will is a player that contributes in all facets of the game. He can play up and down the lineup and is another player that has worn a letter in the past. His experience and winning pedigree will be something that is invaluable to our group and relied heavily on. I’m thrilled to bring Will to Manchester and know he’ll quickly become a fan favourite.”

Will Merchant on his move to Manchester added: “I’m excited for the opportunity to join a great organization. Can’t wait to get the season started with the Storm and hear the fans rocking in September!”

PLAYER SPONSORSHIP: If you’re interested in sponsoring a Manchester Storm player or member of the coaching staff for the 2023/24 Elite League season, please contact RF@storm-office.com for more information!