As taken by the official press release HERE!!!
The Slough Jets are pleased to announce the return of Slava Koulikov who will once again lead the team for the 2013/14 season. The dangerous Russian born forward has made the UK his home and being EIHA trained qualified is without doubt one of the best British forwards in the league.
Slava was appointed as Head Coach last summer following the departure of Doug Sheppard but the timing of his appointment meant he was already behind other team’s Coach’s in his recruitment process. This year, as a returning Head Coach Slava has already spoken to the core members of his squad from last season as well as speaking to players that he would like to join his team for the new campaign.
The 34 year old first came to the UK in 1996 and has played for various Hull sides before joining the Slough Jets, first as a player under coach Pete Russell and then returning as Player/Coach after a season with Manchester Phoenix. In his 17 year British career he has forged a reputation as one of the premier British trained talents in the country.
The Ekaterinberg born player was the Jets third top point scorer last season, scoring at over a point a game despite missing parts of the season through injury but is looking forward to the challenges of a second season as Player/Coach. Koulikov said; “I’m happy to be back for second season and I’d like to thank Zoran and Ghislaine for giving me this opportunity as to me it felt like we had some unfinished business last year. We had a very different team last season with so many changes but we got a cup final appearance and went out cruelly in OT in play-offs.”
He continued; “We’re trying to build on the team from last year, we were strong towards the end of the year. The boys played well and I’m pleased with the condition of the team when we finished. We finished a long way ahead of 6th place and only a few points away from 4th or 3rd. I’m sure we can build on last season, learning for what went wrong and improving on our weaker areas so we can be even more competitive this season.”
Team owner Ghislaine Nassif said; “I’m pleased Slava has decided to return and very much looking forward to the new season. He has some exciting plans to strengthen the team and I’m sure it will provide our supporters with an exciting season.”
Director of Operations Steve English said of Slava’s return; “We’re delighted that we have been able to retain Slava’s services for the new season. The team and fans were both disappointed to not win a trophy last season but the hard work done by Slava cannot be underestimated. He was appointed late last summer but took the job on and built a competitive team from what was available at the time. As the season progressed he made moves to strengthen the team but injuries then robbed the Jets of the top 4 position they deserved. Slava has explained his plans for the season ahead and it promises to be an exciting season.”
English continued; “We will hopefully be in a position to announce some of our 13/14 players shortly along with the new season frequent flyer packages and personal sponsorship details.”
Through the Plexi 