Category: Raiders

Buccs Sign Two-Ways

BUCCANEERS TRIO SIGN TWO-WAY DEAL WITH RAIDERS

Romford Raiders are pleased to announce forwards Artjoms Kazaks, Nils Maskalans, and Shay Woolmore will be joining the Romford Raiders on two-way contracts for the upcoming season, while continuing their development with the Romford Buccaneers.

This move reflects the strength of the club’s development pathway, offering young talent the opportunity to test themselves at the next level while staying key contributors in the NIHL1 Buccaneers setup.

Artjoms Kazaks returns for his fourth season in Romford and second as a prospective Raider. The 19-year-old dual-national forward has steadily developed into a standout player with exciting potential. Known for his work ethic and smart offensive play, Artjoms continues to prove he has what it takes to become a future star.

Nils Maskalans made an immediate impact after arriving from Belfast last season. The 17-year-old Latvian forward notched 27 points in 31 games for the Buccs and impressed with his skill, speed, and ability to frustrate opponents. His fearless style and creative edge make him one to watch.

Shay Woolmore, a proud local product, rounds off the trio. Shay returned to Romford U18’s after a year in Austria with Okanagan back in 2023 and wasted no time stepping up to senior hockey the minute he was eligible. A former Chelmsford junior, Shay joined the Buccs at 16 and made his Raiders debut last season—showcasing his potential and composure well beyond his years.

Raiders Head Coach Buckman commented on the trio ““Having Shay, Artjoms and Nils return to Buccs this coming season was key for the club, they showed massive improvement last year and no better way to reward their progression than being on a 2-way with Raiders. 

I look forward to seeing them grow further and really establish themselves this coming season and push for more Raiders game time”

Romford Hockey, are proud to offer our junior players a clear pathway to senior hockey, helping them sharpen their skills and grow into the next generation of Raiders.

Congratulations to Artjoms, Nils, and Shay — we look forward to seeing your continued progress in both Buccs and Raiders colours this season! 

Interested in supporting Kazaks, Maskalans and Woolmore or any of our 2025/26 announced players? 

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Player Business Sponsorship: marketing@romfordraiders.co.uk

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Max Joins Raiders

Hot Prospect Max Van Mullem Joins Raiders on a Two-Way for 2025/26

The Romford Raiders are thrilled to announce 17-year-old goaltender Max Van Mullem will be joining on a two-way agreement with the Romford Buccaneers.

Max has already turned heads across the league with his calm presence in the crease and lightning-fast reflexes. Boasting an impressive .89% save average, he has consistently shown he has the ability to step up and deliver starter-level performances far beyond his years.

This exciting prospect will benefit from working alongside Raiders’ experienced duo Cole Ceci and Owen Rider, giving him the perfect environment to sharpen his skills and develop into one of British hockey’s brightest young talents.

Raiders Head Coach Jason Buckman said:
It’s really important to retain young talent like Max, talented British goalies are few and far between, and to keep Max at Romford is key.  He will learn so much alongside Owen and Cole, and I can only see him going from strength to strength this year.”

Interested in supporting Max Van Mullem or any of our 2025/26 announced players? 

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Player Business Sponsorship: marketing@romfordraiders.co.uk

Equipment Grid: equipmentsponorship@romfordraiders.co.uk

Own & Loan: ownandloan@romfordraiders.co.uk

Tommy Hugget Returns

Romford Raiders Confirm Return of Tommy Huggett for 2025/26 Season

The Romford Raiders are delighted to announce that forward Tommy Huggett will return for the 2025/26 season. The 23-year-old will be embarking on his seventh season as a Raider.

Since breaking into the senior team as a teenager, Huggett has established himself as a key part of the Raiders’ line-up. To date, he has made 203 appearances for the club.

Head Coach Jason Buckman welcomed Huggett’s return, saying:

It’s great having Tommy back on the roster. I believe he can make a significant contribution to this team and play a key role. Playing to his strengths will be key for him this season, and I expect him to build on his performance from last year.”

Huggett’s return adds further depth and experience to the Raiders’ roster as announcements continue for the 2025/26 season.

Interested in supporting Tommy Huggett or any of our 2025/26 announced players? 

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Player Business Sponsorship: marketing@romfordraiders.co.uk

Equipment Grid: equipmentsponorship@romfordraiders.co.uk

Own & Loan: ownandloan@romfordraiders.co.uk

AYLIFFE’S BACK FOR MORE

RAIDERS WELCOME BACK IRONMAN BRANDON AYLIFFE FOR 9TH SEASON

The Romford Raiders are proud to announce the return of Brandon Ayliffe for his ninth consecutive season in Gold and Blue on a two year contract.

A fan favourite and one of the most consistent and dedicated players in the organisation’s history, Brandon was rightfully acclaimed last season as the Raiders Ironman, having played an astonishing 387 consecutive games over 7 seasons — a testament to his resilience, commitment, and love for the club.

Not only did Brandon continue his unbroken streak last year, but he also delivered his best statistical season to date, racking up 49 points and proving once again he’s not just about heart and hustle, but a serious offensive threat too.

A product of the Romford hockey, Brandon brings energy, speed, and unmatched work ethic every game — values that perfectly reflect what it means to be a Raider.

Head Coach Jason Buckman said:
“When I spoke to Brandon early in the summer he made it clear there is nowhere else he would rather play! His commitment, energy and the points he brings to the table is invaluable for Raiders!

So pleased he has committed for the next 2 years.”

Brandon commented “It’s great to be back, can’t wait to see you guys in Sapphire making the arena loud and proud. I just want to get started, the season can’t come quick enough. I feel like last year I let my self down, I set goals for myself for the season and I wasn’t happy with it, this season I’m going to push harder for the same goals I set myself. I’ve been talking to Bucky through the summer I like ideas his bringing in this year, to be competitive through season. On that note I’ll see you guys in September”

Welcome back, Brandon!

Interested in supporting Brandon Ayliffe or any of our 2025/26 announced players?

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Player Business Sponsorship: marketing@romfordraiders.co.uk

Equipment Grid: equipmentsponorship@romfordraiders.co.uk

Own & Loan: ownandloan@romfordraiders.co.uk

Marco Pascale Returns

Marco Pascale Returns for Fourth Season with the Raiders

The Raiders are delighted to announce the return of 21-year-old defenceman Marco Pascale for his fourth season with the club.

A product of the Romford Academy, Pascale progressed through the ranks before stepping up to the Raiders from the Buccaneers. Since joining the National League roster, he has become a reliable presence on the blue line and continues to develop as one of the league’s promising young defencemen. To date, Pascale has already made 138 appearances in Gold & Blue, underlining his value to the team’s defensive core.

Pascale said, “I’m excited to sign with the Raiders again this season and be part of a club with such competitive spirit. I can’t wait to get started with the team, wear the jersey, compete and hear the fans with the passion and energy they bring. Look forward to seeing you all in September. Enjoy your summer.”

Head Coach Jason Buckman is equally pleased to have Pascale back in the fold:

“Getting Marco back was really important for the D-core this year. He has shown since moving up from the Buccs that he is an emerging talent in the National League. I will look to him to build on last year and really push himself to that next level that he can achieve.”

The Raiders faithful can look forward to seeing Pascale back on the ice this September as the team continues preparations for an exciting new season.

Interested in supporting Marco Pascale or any of our 2025/26 announced players? 

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Player Business Sponsorship: marketing@romfordraiders.co.uk

Equipment Grid: equipmentsponorship@romfordraiders.co.uk

Own & Loan: ownandloan@romfordraiders.co.uk