Basingstoke Bison are proud to announce the launch of the Bison Ice Hockey Academy, a major step forward for the development of young ice hockey talent in the region.

Following an exciting new agreement with Planet Ice, the academy will officially open its doors in August 2025, ready for the 2025/26 season.

The Bison Ice Hockey Academy is committed to nurturing the next generation of players by providing a structured, competitive, and professional environment in which to learn and grow. This initiative aims to re-establish a clear player development pathway for young athletes in Basingstoke and beyond.

The executive management team for the academy will consist of Basingstoke Bison managing director Steve Nell and head coach Jeff Flanagan, supported by a highly experienced group of individuals dedicated to building a successful and sustainable programme.

Nick Boulding has been appointed as general manager, with Kelsey Boulding serving as operations manager, and Ryan Cathcart taking on the role of on-ice operations manager. Together, this team will oversee all aspects of the academy’s development, delivery and future growth.

As part of this announcement, the academy is now seeking expressions of interest from former Bison junior players who are eager to return to the ice and be part of this exciting new chapter.

Based on the number of responses received by the end of June, the Academy will determine the structure for the 2025/26 season.

If sufficient interest is received, the academy will enter teams into the England Ice Hockey junior leagues for the upcoming season. If numbers are not quite enough to form league teams, players will still have the opportunity to train regularly together as a group, building skills, fitness and team culture in preparation for full league entry in future seasons. This approach ensures every interested player has a clear pathway back into the game.

Expanding opportunities across the game

In addition to traditional junior teams, the academy is also launching an U16 female team and a new adult ladies team, providing an inclusive platform for girls and women to progress in the sport.

These programmes will help establish Basingstoke as a centre for female player development and strengthen the sport’s presence in the local community.

Looking further ahead, plans are in place to introduce a Bison 2 team for the 2026/27 season, creating a vital stepping stone between junior hockey and the senior Basingstoke Bison roster. This will provide a competitive environment for developing players to continue their progression within the Bison system.

Opportunities to get involved

The Bison academy is also inviting former Bison junior managers and coaches to express their interest in becoming involved in this exciting new chapter.

The academy is committed to building a strong foundation of experienced and passionate volunteers to support all aspects of the programme.

Basingstoke Bison head coach Jeff Flanagan said: “This is an exciting moment for the club and the town. Our aim is to rebuild a thriving junior programme that supports the long-term future of the Bison and provides opportunities for players of all ages and abilities to reach their full potential.”

Players, parents, former managers, and coaches wishing to register their interest are encouraged to fill in the academy’s expression of interest form. If you have any further questions please contact the Basingstoke Bison Academy team at: bisonacademy@basingstokebison.com

Further details, including coaching appointments, training schedules and team structures, will be released in the coming weeks.

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