PHOENIX have signed giant netminder Jason Wolfe to spearhead their assault on the Elite League next season.

The 6ft 5ins American has been a leading light in the East Coast League for the last five years and Phoenix coach Tony Hand reckons he will take some beating.

"He's a big goalie and will certainly fill the net, and that alone will cause opposition forwards a few problems," said Hand.

"I told him about our new rink, team and what a great city Manchester is and was impressed by the manner in which he conducted the negotiations."

Wolfe, from College Park, Maryland, played four years at Merrimack College while studying psychology and business.

He contacted Phoenix himself and Hand was quickly impressed after checking out his resume.

He has played for Reading Royals, Adirondack, Roanoke Express, Norfolk Admirals and Augusta Lynx.

"I guess I'd say I'm a big, athletic, butterfly netminder, and I'm hungry to succeed and reward the faith Tony has placed in me," said Wolfe.

Chance

"I've thought about moving to Europe before having visited Germany while playing in college. I know some guys who've played in the UK before and they're really enjoyed it there, in fact Jayme Platt recommended the Phoenix to me.

"It's a chance to see Europe, experience a different culture and for prove myself in a new league. I'm excited and looking forward to the challenge the Phoenix have offered."

Wolfe played with Augusta Lynx last season and Steven Sanders, ice hockey correspondent of the local paper, said: "He didn't have that great of a record or save percentage here last year, but the defence in front of him was pretty bad. They were small and gave up wide open opportunities often.

"I thought he was a pretty good goaltender, and he played extremely well in spurts of two or three games. I think it was just that when the defence played well, he was hard to beat."

The capture of Wolfe takes the Phoenix roster to 13 and that just leaves two or three more places before the season faces off in September.

Hand expects to announce another new signing by the weekend and said: "Team building has gone very well and now I am looking for a couple of skilful guys to put the finishing touches to the team.

"All these guys have a key role to play.

"I'm very happy with the Brits I've signed. They'll have to take a step up but I know they can cope with it.

"It has been hard work all summer. I've spoken to hundreds of players but I think the ones we have are the right ones for our team."