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.
