The YKK sponsored Widnes Wild are pleased to announce the return of defenceman Alex Mitchell for the 23/24 season.

Mitchell made his debut in September for the Wild last year, joining on a 2-way contract with NIHL D2 side Bradford Bulldogs. He played 47 games in total last season, helping him to gain experience plus ice time, and finished with 9 points and 43 PIMS. Alex began playing in 2014 for Blackpool Seagulls U16, before switching to Bradford’s academy in 2015, where he has stayed ever since. Mitch has played over 150 games in a Bulldogs jersey, making 73 points and 515 PIMS. This season, Mitchell will continue his 2-way with Widnes and Bradford helping him progress further with his career. 

Player-coach Joey Coulter said the following on Mitchell:

‘Great to see Alex Mitchell back in the lineup for next season. He’s a young defensive player with a bright future, I know Alex has been putting in the extra hours this summer and he’s coming to Widnes to make a statement. Natural skater and solid on his feet, old school style defender that plays a physical game and we want to work with him to find that next level. Mitch already has the tools, we’ll be spending a lot of time with him tweaking the finer details and if he wants it bad enough, I think this will be a breakout year for him.’

Whilst Alex commented:

‘After being made to feel so welcome last year by everyone, when I had the opportunity to re-sign, it was a no-brainer. Coming in on a 2-way last season helped me gain experience, and a first-hand view of what it takes to play at this level, whilst still receiving important game time with my home-town team Bradford Bulldogs. (After speaking with Joey, we decided that continuing my 2-way for the upcoming season would be best for my development.) I am looking forward to being back in front of the amazing fans and hopefully bringing some more silverware back to Widnes next season!’