Checkmate, Booth is Wild!
Widnes Wild are delighted to announce the signing of netminder #1 Ollie Booth for the 2026/27 season, joining the organisation from Leeds Knights.
The move marks an exciting new chapter for Booth as he enters his first season of senior-only hockey after ageing out of junior hockey. With the opportunity to represent both Widnes Wild Division 1 and Division 2, Ollie will have the chance to gain valuable experience across two levels of British hockey while maximising his time on the ice.
The introduction of the Wild’s new Division 2 side provides an important opportunity for developing players, particularly those making the transition from junior to senior hockey. For Booth, the two-way agreement creates the potential for regular game time across both squads, giving him the platform to continue developing his game while adapting to the demands of senior hockey.
Speaking after joining the Wild, Booth said:
“I am really excited for the opportunity to sign with Widnes for the upcoming season. Being able to ice for both teams and get as much ice time as possible throughout the year is going to be really beneficial for my development and I can’t wait to get going!”
Division 2 Head Coach Andy Rourke is excited to welcome another young netminder to his roster and believes Booth has the experience and ambition to continue progressing.
“We are thrilled to add this young netminder to our roster. He brings proven battle-tested experience from NIHL2, NIHL1 and the National tier.
He is hungry to develop, push his limits, and reach that next elite level with us.”
Booth’s arrival further demonstrates the importance of the newly established Division 2 team within the Wild’s wider structure. Alongside providing competitive senior hockey, the team creates additional opportunities for players to gain meaningful ice time and experience while continuing their progression towards the highest level possible.
Having already gained experience across NIHL2, NIHL1 and National-level hockey, Booth now has the opportunity to build on that foundation in Widnes. With regular competitive hockey and the support of both senior coaching groups, the Wild are excited to see how the young netminder develops throughout a full season of senior hockey.
Player sponsorship packages for Ollie are now available, offering businesses and supporters the opportunity 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 Booth’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.
The club is delighted to welcome Ollie to Widnes and looks forward to seeing #1 between the pipes throughout the 2026/27 campaign.
Keep an eye on the club’s social media channels, with more player announcements coming soon.
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