As part of our recent announcement confirming the alignment of Widnes Wild NIHL1 and Widnes Wild Academy, we’re proud to share the thoughts of two coaches at the heart of this journey.
Widnes Wild NIHL1 Head Coach Tom Jackson and Widnes Wild Academy Head Coach Mikey Gilbert have both spoken about what this alignment means for player development, progression and the long-term future of hockey in Widnes.
Their words reflect a unified approach, a clear pathway and a shared ambition to develop players the right way, from grassroots through to senior hockey, all under one Wild identity.
Widnes Wild Division 1 Head Coach, Tom Jackson commented;
“As Head Coach of Widnes Wild NIHL1, I’m proud to stand behind a transformative moment in our club’s history, one that strengthens our foundations and sets a clear course for the future.
The formal unification of our senior team with the Widnes Wild Academy marks a decisive step toward building a truly integrated organisation. By aligning all levels of the club under one structure, we’re creating a seamless development pathway that supports our players from their first steps on the ice through to senior competition.
This alignment is more than administrative, it’s a commitment to nurturing talent, fostering continuity, and ensuring every player has the opportunity to grow within a supportive, professional environment.
In addition, the planned launch of a Widnes Wild Division 2 team for the 2026/27 season will further strengthen this pathway. Subject to England Ice Hockey approval, our Division 2 side will provide a vital bridge between junior development and senior competition, offering emerging players meaningful ice time, mentorship, and a platform to thrive.
Together, these changes reflect our long-term vision: a club where development is intentional, progression is achievable, and excellence is cultivated at every level. I’m excited to work alongside our academy coaches, staff, and players to bring this vision to life and to continue building a culture that values unity, opportunity, and pride in the Wild jersey.
The future is Wild, and it starts now.”
Meanwhile, Widnes Wild Academy Head Coach, Mikey Gilbert added;
“The merger of both the junior academy and senior club together as one is a positive natural progression given the strong relationship both have had with each other and is another significant stride along the impressive journey thus far for both clubs.
To go from no teams in any league in the not so distant past to where the Academy and Seniors are now is an amazing fete of its own, with the additions of many other achievements along the way to add to that.
There is a great sense of community, opportunity and a genuine strive for individual and collective betterment within the club which will only continue to grow further and become even stronger in these core values with the unity of the clubs. The feeling within the entire organisation is one of enthusiasm, positivity and an eagerness to be a part of the future.
Having a second senior team start up within the brand is an integral cog in the continuation of this journey. This now offers further opportunity for Academy players to make their next steps both during and post junior hockey into NIHL 2 on their way forward out of juniors and into seniors. It bridges a gap which will allow us to continue developing the next generation of players through the Widnes ranks to our top team and beyond.
A valuable asset to strengthen progression of our crop of talent in the Academy and give further progress and valued experience to those who want to be a part of it.
This Unity will be beneficial for all the players and personnel within the club. Kickstarting an exciting future in Widnes, rich in learning, motivation, opportunity and a guide in becoming whatever each individual on the pathway feels possible for their future selves.”