Romford Raiders Welcome Canadian Defenceman Jarrett Baker

The Romford Raiders are thrilled to announce the signing of Canadian defenceman Jarrett Baker for the upcoming season.

Baker, 24, developed through the competitive Canadian system, and he established himself as a dependable presence on the blue line. He joins the Raiders from Dalhousie University, where he spent the last four seasons. Before this, Baker spent five seasons at the highest tier of junior hockey in Eastern Canada, which serves as a development pathway for athletes aspiring to professional careers, particularly in the NHL.

The 6ft, left-shooting blueliner brings a strong two-way game, solid defensive awareness, and a calm presence on the ice. The no-nonsense defenceman adds stability and depth to the Raiders’ defensive core.

Head Coach Jason Buckman commented on the signing:
“It’s great to have Jarrett commit to the Gold & Blue. He comes highly recommended and will bring a big presence to the blue line.

Jarrett plays a physical game but can also be an offensive threat, and I will look for him to lead the D-core and be an important part of the roster this coming season“

Baker is eager to make his mark in the UK, commenting:
“I’m super excited to sign with the Raiders. This is an incredible opportunity for me in my life and hockey career. I’ve heard amazing things about the organisation, especially the fans. I’m looking forward to meeting all the guys and getting things started in England.”

The Romford Raiders welcome Jarrett to the team and look forward to seeing him hit the ice in blue and gold. Interested in sponsoring Jarrett or any of our 2025/26 announced players?
Get involved through:

• Player Business Sponsorship: marketing@romfordraiders.co.uk

• Equipment Grid: equipmentsponsorship@romfordraiders.co.uk

• Own & Loan: ownandloan@romfordraiders.co.uk

We are pleased to announce that our equipment sponsorship options are back again this season. See details below for our first two signings Jack Cooper and Jake Sylvester.

Jake Sylvester Returns to Gold & Blue on 2-Year Deal

Experienced Forward Set for 9th Season After Notching 83 Points Across League and Play-Offs

The Romford Raiders are proud to announce the return of forward Jake Sylvester, who has signed a 2 year deal ahead of the upcoming season.  This marks Sylvester’s 9th season with the Gold & Blue, reaffirming his place as one of the club’s most consistent and respected players. Jake’s has made 382 appearances for the Raiders and scored 424 points over the 8 seasons.

Throughout the regular 2024/25 league and play-off campaigns, Sylvester has proven to be a key contributor on both ends of the ice, tallying a fantastic 48 goals and 35 assists for a combined 83 points. Known for his leadership, work ethic, and clutch performances, Sylvester remains a fan favourite and a driving force within the locker room and on the ice.

Head Coach Jason Buckman commented, “I am excited to welcome Jake back to the Romford Raiders for the next 2 years.  Jake has proven he is a key player to the Raiders and has the talent, dedication, and understanding of our team that make him an invaluable asset we need to keep.

His return not only adds strength and firepower to our lineup, but he also can inspire our younger players and lead by example, demonstrating his importance to the squad for the upcoming season”

Sylvester’s return ensures a strong presence as the team looks to build on recent momentum and aim for further success this season.

Interested in supporting Jake Sylvester or any of our 2025/26 announced players?
Get involved through:

• Player Business Sponsorship: marketing@romfordraiders.co.uk

• Equipment Grid: equipmentsponsorship@romfordraiders.co.uk

• Own & Loan: ownandloan@romfordraiders.co.uk

Captain Jack Cooper Returns for 2025/26 Season

We’re kicking off the 2025/26 signing campaign with the announcement — Captain Jack Cooper is back!

As we gear up to celebrate his upcoming testimonial game and mark an incredible 12 seasons in senior hockey with the Romford/London Raiders, there’s no better way to start the festivities than by announcing that Coops is returning for another year in Gold & Blue.

With 513 games already under his belt for the Raiders, Jack’s loyalty means he is now ranked 2^nd in league appearances. The grit and determination on the ice see Jack hit a career high in gaining 24 points (2 goals and 22 assists), and the commitment to the club and his teammates is second to none, and his influence in the dressing room and on the ice is immeasurable.

Head Coach Jason Buckman had this to say:
“I’m happy to confirm Jack is back for the forthcoming season. He led by example last year in his first year as captain and is someone who’s the perfect fit for Raiders hockey. His straightforward, no-nonsense approach and great attitude can only lead this team from the front. His leadership qualities on and off the ice are exactly what I look for — he’s someone the younger guys can look up to and the more experienced players want as a role model captain.”

Make sure you join Coops, along with his past and present teammates, in celebrating a decade of dedication as a Raider and welcoming #14 back for another season.

Jack’s Testimonial Details: Saturday 3^rd May, doors open: 4.30 PM, Face-off: 5.15 PM at the Sapphire Ice & Leisure

Purchase your tickets Here

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.