The Newcastle Northstars have confirmed the re-signing of four players for the upcoming 2024 Australian Ice Hockey League (AIHL) season. Also confirmed was the return of head coach Kevin Noble for his third season with the club.
Forward Daniel Berno returns for his third season with the club. During 2023 he played 27 games, scoring 25 goals and 33 assists. Since making his league debut in 2022 Berno has competed in 50 AIHL games and recorded 100 points.
Defender Tanner Butler returns for his second season with the club. During 2023 he played 20 games, scoring 14 goals and 16 assists. During the AIHL’s off-season Butler joined the Bristol Pitbulls to play in the National Ice Hockey League’s National League where he recorded nine goals and 30 assists.
Forward Francis Drolet returns for his fourth season with the club. During 2023 he played 22 games, scoring 20 goals and 33 assists. Since making his league debut in 2019 Drolet has competed in 73 AIHL games and recorded 154 points.
Goaltender Charlie Smart returns for his sixth season with the club. During 2023 he played in 24 games, recording a 0.890 save percentage and 4.82 goals against average. Since making his league debut in 2015 Smart has competed in 112 AIHL games, averaging a 0.881 save percentage during the regular season and a 0.916 save percentage in the playoffs.
Further information
- (Subscription required) Aussie duty calls for Ethan Hawes as Northstars eye new national season by Josh Callinan (Newcastle Herald, 14 March 2024)
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