Planet Ice NIHL National League Announces Increase in Import Player Limit for 2025/26 Season

The Planet Ice NIHL National League (PINIHL) is pleased to announce a key update ahead of the upcoming 2025/26 season: teams will now be permitted to roster four non-British trained players, an increase from the previous limit of three.

This decision marks a significant step forward in the league’s continued growth and ambition to raise the standard of competition across the UK’s premier semi-professional ice hockey league.

“The Planet Ice NIHL National League is always striving to become bigger and better,” said a league spokesperson. “We believe that increasing the number of import players will not only raise the quality of play on the ice but also enhance the experience for fans, players, and clubs alike.”

The change will come into effect at the start of the 2025/26 season, giving clubs the flexibility to strengthen their squads and attract even more high-calibre talent from around the world. By allowing an additional non-British trained player per team, the league aims to drive faster-paced games, sharpen competition, and continue its upward trajectory as a must-watch product within British hockey.

Supporting Growth and Development
While the league welcomes elite international talent, the commitment to developing British players remains a core value. The increased import limit is intended to complement domestic development by raising overall standards and fostering a more competitive environment, ultimately benefiting British-trained players and the national game.

With passionate fans, dedicated clubs, and the continued support of title sponsor Planet Ice, the NIHL National League continues to establish itself as one of the most exciting and progressive hockey leagues in the UK.

Stay connected for more updates on the 2025/26 season.

The Romford Raiders are delighted to announce the appointment of Jason Buckman as the new Head Coach.

Buckman is no stranger to the Raiders’ faithful. A former stalwart defenceman, he proudly wore the Raiders jersey for five successful seasons, lifting silverware throughout his time with the club, playing at both Rom Valley Way and Lee Valley. He was an integral part of the historic team that played the final game at the iconic Rom Valley Way Ice Rink — a moment etched in Raiders fans’ memories and the history of the club.

Over the past three seasons, Buckman has been behind the bench as Head Coach of the Romford Buccaneers, where he has played a key role in developing local talent and instilling a winning mentality throughout the club. Before that, he spent four seasons as Assistant Coach of the Peterborough Phantoms, where he contributed to their Treble-winning success.

Buckman brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and a deep understanding of Romford’shockey culture. His career, both as a player and coach, has been marked by success and a relentless drive and passion for excellence. Buckman is ready to build on the strong foundations laid by former Head Coach Adam Laishram and the team’s impressive performances this past season.

“I’m incredibly honoured to be taking on the role of Head Coach with the Raiders,” said Buckman. “I’m really excited for the season ahead. After spending the last 3 seasons coaching the Buccaneers, the time is right to step up a level and take on this challenge as Head coach at National league level.

The new ownership group have done a fantastic job in such a short time, and there is no doubt the team over-achieved expectations. and there were moments throughout the season which showed what this team can achieve with a little more structure and some changes to drive the success of the organisation. 

Having played here for 5 seasons and now coached here, I feel like I have a good understanding of how this team should play and the expectations from fans. From RVW to the Sapphire, the fans ask for a never quit attitude, and hockey to be played the Romford way, and hopefully I can bring that mentality to next year’s squad and we can have a successful year.”

As we’ve seen this season, the Romford Buccaneers play a vital role in the Romford Raiders’ development pathway. Acting as the bridge between our Academy system and the senior Raiders squad, the Buccaneers provide a crucial platform where future stars sharpen their skills and make the leap into senior hockey.

With Buckman stepping up as Head Coach of the Raiders, we will now begin the search for a new Head Coach for the Buccaneers. This individual will work closely with our junior coaching staff and Buckman to ice a competitive team in NIHL1 while continuing to nurture and develop the next generation of Romford Hockey talent.

Recruitment of the Raiders 2025/26 team has already started, and Buckman’s first player signing will be coming very soon, but in the meantime, please join us in welcoming Jason Buckman to the Raiders as Head Coach and prepare for an exciting new chapter in Romford hockey.

#OnceARaider #AlwaysARaider

The Romford Raiders would like to announce that Adam Laishram will not be returning as Head Coach next season. This comes after an extraordinary year that saw the team defy expectations and reach the Cup Final and playoffs—a testament to the incredible work and leadership Adam brought to the role.

Following an offseason marked by ownership changes, the Raiders’ campaign began later than most. In what could have been a write-off year for many, Adam embraced the challenge, playing a pivotal role in restructuring the club. His commitment to the team turned a difficult start into a season of competitive hockey that Raiders fans could be proud of.

We are sincerely grateful to Adam for what he brought to the Raiders in a year of unknowns.

Adam added, “I’m sincerely grateful to the directors for giving me the opportunity to coach the Romford Raiders this season. It’s been an honour to lead this group through a year filled with both challenges and growth. I’m proud of what was achieved and have full confidence in the club’s direction moving forward. After a season heavily impacted by personal injuries, I now look forward to using the extra time in the off-season to prioritise my own health and fitness and to focus on the next chapter of my journey as I begin my physiotherapy career.
I’d like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the Gold & Blue Army for their unwavering support throughout the campaign. Despite the highs and lows – progressing deep into the cup while facing inconsistencies in league play – your continued presence, passion, and energy made a significant difference. I’m also incredibly grateful to the dedicated volunteers who selflessly gave their time and effort for the love of the club. A special thank you to Jonesy for his constant support and the personal sacrifices he made throughout the season. Thank you to our amazing medical staff in Erin, Bailey and Lee, who just couldn’t get rid of me this year no matter how hard we tried. And lastly, to my teammates: thank you for trusting and respecting me as a first-year coach, and for your relentless commitment every time you stepped on the ice.”

We’d also like to say goodbye and offer our heartfelt thanks to Assistant Coach Lewis Jones. Lewis’s dedication to the team has been unwavering, putting in the miles, showing up week in and week out, and always supporting the players and staff with professionalism and loyalty. Everyone has deeply valued his presence behind the bench and around the team at the club.

Lewis commented, “I just wanted to take the opportunity to say thank you and goodbye to the Gold and Blue army. Thank you for your unwavering support this season. None of this would be possible without your support week in, week out, and I am glad that we’ve been able to give you guys some special moments this season. Thank you to Laish for allowing me to represent this amazing club. Thank you to the players, staff, volunteers and owners for their commitment this season. Finally, I want to thank my wife for her support this season. None of this would be possible without your support and holding it down back home with our little boy while I travel from Yorkshire every week. I wish the club nothing but the best going forward and hope the club gets to have many more special moments like the ones we’ve had this season together. Hopefully, see you all in the future.”

Fans attending the End of Season Awards will have the opportunity to personally thank both Adam and Lewis for their incredible contributions throughout the year.

We won’t keep you in suspense too long. Keep your eyes peeled this week as we announce the Raiders’ new Head Coach and reveal our first signing for the 2025/26 season.

Romford Raiders have secured their spot in the 2025 playoff race, and the team is ready to battle its way to the National Playoff Finals! As we approach the crucial final stages of the season, we need YOU – the best fans in the league – we need you to come and join us to pack the Sapphire Ice & Leisure Centre and help push the Raiders over the line.

Our journey continues with three massive home games, each one a vital step towards securing our place at the Playoff Finals in Coventry over the Easter weekend. Mark your calendars and bring your voices!

Upcoming Home Fixtures:

Sunday, 30th March – Romford Raiders vs. Milton Keynes Lightning
Doors open @ 4.30pm, Face off @ 5.15pm

Sunday, 6th April – Romford Raiders vs. Sheffield Steeldogs
Doors open@ 4.30pm, Face off @ 5.15pm

Sunday, 13th April – Romford Raiders vs. Swindon Wildcats
Doors open@ 4.30pm, Face off @ 5.15pm

These games will determine our fate, and every goal, every save, and every big hit will be made even more special with your unwavering support.  The Sapphire needs to be rocking as we fight for our chance to represent Romford at the Playoff Finals in Coventry. Let’s turn up the volume, wave the banners, and cheer our Raiders to victory!

If you haven’t been before, it’s well worth a visit! Ice hockey is an exciting, fast-paced sport with plenty of homegrown talent showcasing their skills. It’s a fantastic family-friendly experience, and you might even witness an old-school hockey scrap to add to the excitement of the night!

Matchnight tickets and the matchnight stream can be preordered – https://romfordraiders.ticketco.events/uk/en?version=m

Join the Raiders Family – Sponsorship Opportunities for 2025/26

As we build for the future, we are also looking for new sponsorship partners for the 2025/26 season. Supporting the Romford Raiders is a fantastic way to gain exposure for your business while being part of an exciting, fast-growing sport. Whether you’re a local business or a national brand, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved.

For more information on sponsorship or to discuss how you can support the Raiders, please contact our team today! – sponsorship@romfordraiders.co.uk

Let’s fill the rink, bring the noise, and push for Playoff glory!

#LetsGoRaiders

If you would like to get your hands on one of these game-worn pink jerseys please read on!

The cost to own & loan the jersey will be £100 and payment will be required within 24 hours. You will have your name or dedication printed on the back of the jersey and will keep the shirt at the end of the season. Please complete this form https://forms.gle/3CmfsGFhweqGXQb26 from 7:30pm and select your 1st, 2nd and 3rd choice of player. 

Please note, any requests completed before 7:30pm tonight will be disregarded. They will be offered on a first come, first served basis for the following jersey’s: 

• Tyler Nixon
• Thomas Relf
• Elliot Dewey
• Marco Pascale
• George Norcliffe
• Reed Morrison
• Jake Sylvester
• Owen Rider
• Ashley Jackson
• Andrew Shewfelt
• Shaun Miller
• TJay Anderson
• Tom Palmer
• Tommy Huggett