Oh, I Believe… Reece Is Wild

Widnes Wild are delighted to announce the re-signing of defenceman Reece O’Brien on a two-way contract with Widnes Wild Division 1 and Widnes Wild Division 2 for the 2026/27 season.

Another proud member of the Widnes Wild Academy, the 18-year-old continues his journey through the club’s player pathway as he combines senior hockey with his ongoing development at U19 level.

Reece’s re-signing represents exactly what the Wild have been working towards over recent years. With the introduction of the new Division 2 side, the club now offers a fully integrated pathway from the Academy through to Division 2 and Division 1, ensuring talented young players have the opportunity to develop within one organisation while gaining meaningful senior experience at every stage of their journey.

A former Academy captain, O’Brien has consistently demonstrated leadership qualities throughout his junior career. His composed style of play, maturity beyond his years and willingness to learn have already earned him valuable NIHL1 experience, and the new two-way agreement will provide even greater opportunities to continue his progression while contributing across both senior squads.

Still eligible to ice for the Wild U19s, Reece will benefit from regular competitive hockey across all levels of the organisation, reinforcing the club’s philosophy of developing homegrown talent and preparing players for long-term success in senior hockey.

Speaking after agreeing his new two-way contract, O’Brien said

“I am excited to have signed on a two-way with the Widnes Wild Ice Hockey Club for the upcoming 2026/2027 season.

Having the ability to play for my local team on a two-way contract with both teams will assist my development as a player and provide me with more vital senior experience.

I hope to contribute towards the success of both teams, as well as work closely with all my teammates and coaches.”

Division 2 Head Coach Andrew Rourke believes O’Brien is another outstanding example of the strength of the Wild Academy.

“We are proud to sign 18-year-old Reece, another product of our Wild Academy.

He is a composed leader who captained our junior team and already brings valuable experience from NIHL1. He works hard, plays with maturity, and is ready to make an immediate impact on our defensive line.”

The introduction of the Division 2 team marks an exciting new chapter for the organisation, bridging the gap between junior and senior hockey and creating even more opportunities for players like Reece to continue their development without leaving the club.

Rather than young players being required to make the significant jump directly from Academy hockey into NIHL1, the Wild now have a structured progression route that allows players to earn valuable senior minutes, build confidence and develop at the right pace before establishing themselves at the highest level within the organisation.

As another homegrown player progressing through every stage of that pathway, O’Brien perfectly represents the vision the club has worked tirelessly to build. His journey from the Academy to U19s, and now across both senior teams, demonstrates the opportunities now available for the next generation of Wild players.

Supporters and businesses now have the opportunity to back one of the club’s brightest young prospects for the 2026/27 campaign.

Player sponsorship packages for Reece are now available, offering businesses and supporters the chance to partner with another successful graduate of the Widnes Wild Academy. Sponsors will receive exposure across the club’s social media channels, website and matchnight communications throughout the season while supporting the continued development of homegrown talent in Widnes.

Fans can also secure a piece of the action through the club’s popular Own & Loan scheme. Both O’Brien’s home and away jerseys are available for £75 each, giving supporters the opportunity to follow another important chapter in his development before taking ownership of a game-worn jersey at the end of the campaign.

To enquire about player sponsorship or reserve an Own & Loan jersey, please contact info@widneswild.co.uk.

Everyone at Widnes Wild is delighted to welcome Reece back for the 2026/27 season, and we look forward to watching #23 continue his progression through the Wild pathway while representing both Division 1 and Division 2 throughout the campaign.

Keep an eye on the club’s social media channels, with more player announcements coming soon.

#LETSGOWILD #REWILDING