The YKK sponsored Widnes Wild are pleased to announce the return of netminder Jake Lowndes for the 23/24 season.

Jake played his first senior year in NIHL D1 last season for Widnes after following up from the wild academy. He started playing for Deeside Dragons U15 in 2015, before joining Manchester’s academy the following season until 2019. Lowndes is a young prospect who will also be signing for NIHL D2 side Bradford Bulldogs in the upcoming season. This 2-way allows him to gain crucial ice-time and experience across 2 leagues to improve his overall ability for the future.

Player-coach Joey Coulter said the following on Lowndes:

‘Jake Lowndes is a great prospect for us, he is now part of a very competitive goaltending team and Jake also has the benefit of a 2-way deal where he can gain some valuable ice time to help his development. The improvement we’ve seen in Lowndes’ shot stopping ability over the last 6 months has been substantial, if he keeps projecting at this rate, he could certainly be a regular starter for us in the future.’

Meanwhile Jake added:

‘I’m pleased to say I’ll be back for another season with the Wild, but Joey and I decided that it would be best for my development if I also signed for Div 2 side Bradford Bulldogs next season where I’ll play more regularly. I’m looking forward to seeing all the fans soon #LETSGOWILD’