Busy weekend sees signings galore.
The weekend has seen a surge of transfer and signings activity as both Elite and Premier League promoters jockey for position and compete to complete their teams for the 2004 season. In addition to Edinburgh [see separate item], Peterborough, Somerset, Stoke, and the Isle of Wight have announced signings.
The weekend has seen a surge of transfer and signings activity as both Elite and Premier League promoters jockey for position and compete to complete their teams for the 2004 season. In addition to Edinburgh [see separate item], Peterborough, Somerset, Stoke, and the Isle of Wight have announced signings.
Peterborough have brought in Henning Bager and brothers Lukas and Ales Dryml. Lukas Dryml has successfully applied for his grading to be reduced after ending last season with serious leg injuries. Panthers boss Mick Horton said: "After missing out on Kenneth Bjerre I make no apologies for the signing of Lukas. I now have the team I want, this is Mick Horton's team."
Matt Read as their first signing under new bosses Peter Toogood and Mick Bell at Somerset. Read was an instant hit with Rebels fans after some impressive displays last season. He said: "I really enjoyed my speedway this year but I do feel the Somerset supporters have yet to see the best of me and I'm looking forward to an even better season in 2004."
Stoke have confirmed that the long-serving Paul Pickering will be returning to Loomer Road for the 2004 season. He joins Jan Staechmann and Paul Clews as confirmed signings for the Potters, who will be looking to improve on last season's 15th place finish in the Premier League. Pickering said: "I'm delighted to be back, I like it at Stoke and never wanted to ride for anyone else."
Jason Bunyan will ride for the Isle of Wight in the Premier League next season after agreeing terms with co-promoter Dave Pavitt. Pavitt said: "Jason was very popular here last time he rode for us and we're delighted to welcome him back to the club." Bunyan may also continue in the Elite League with Coventry if the Bees elect to offer him a doubling-up position in their squad.