Raiders announce their first "import" of the new season.

Having already announced the signing of six uk based players for the coming year, Raiders were pleased to announce the first of their non EIHA trained players, and it is a familiar name.

"Michal Palik makes a welcome return to the Raiders number 3 shirt this season and we cant wait to see more of the form that saw him become one of the stand out imports of last seasons campaign", said a Raiders' spokesman.

"Michal came to us on the recommendation of "Big Jimmy" (Jan Krajicek) and whilst Jan has moved on, we are pleased that we have agreed terms with Michal who's defensive talents are now well known to us".

Palik had played only in his Czech Republic home prior to last season and clearly liked what he saw over here in the UK. In his 20 games he chipped in with 10 points and just 16 penalty minutes and as the season progressed it was clear that he improved in confidence and productivity.

The 6 foot , 12 stone defenseman settled in well last year and we are looking forward to seeing more of his booming slap shot and good vision and distribution.