Following on from Brendan Johnson’s arm injury last week the Wightlink Warriors speedway team have been forced into making some changes, welcoming Kelsey Dugard and Benji Compton to the national league side. However, the new additions have come at a price with Ellis Perks being released.
The club’s captain, Brendan, suffered a broken arm after crashing out during a practice session at Smallbrook Stadium last Thursday. With uncertainty looming over the recovery period, the Warrior’s management have been forced to look at other options for the 2016 season, which begins next month.
Team Manager Neil Vatcher has today (Friday) said:
“I am delighted to be able to announce Benji Compton as a replacement for the unfortunate Brendan. Benji is a rider that we spoke to before Christmas and we are now finally delighted to have him on board. Benji will be a big hitter for the Warriors in the NL and now gives us a really strong top end.
“With getting Benji in on a 8.95 average for us to get under the 40 point points limit, then unfortunately we have had to make a 2nd change. It’s unfortunate that we had to tell Ellis Perks that he is the rider to make way for the changes, and we wish Ellis all the best for the 2016 season where ever it takes him.
“It’s sad to let Ellis go, but in Ellis’ replacement, we are also delighted to welcome to the Warriors camp another young British star who undoubtedly has a big career in front of him, Kelsey Dugard. Dugard of course comes from a great pedigree of speedway history and we believe bringing him to the Island away from the tight turns of Eastbourne can only help his education. We look forward to meeting up with both Benji and Kelsey along with all the Warriors team and supporters at next week’s press and practice.”
On his appointment new Warrior Benji Compton said:
“I’m really excited to be part of the Warriors. Shame it’s under these kind of circumstances, which cannot be helped and I wish Brendan all the best and a speedy recovery. I’m looking forward to working with Neil Vatcher and the boys as I think we have a team of great lads throughout. With a new look on the Island, our team I am sure we can cause a stir. Now, I am rushing around like mad to get everything sorted as I thought my season was done at Christmas, but it’s only just begun and bring it on I say.”
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Kelsey Dugard added:
“I am relieved I now have a team place as now I believe this is the chance I have been waiting for and I can prove to everyone that I am serious and I will get going. I cannot wait.”
Commercial Director Barry Bishop said:
“It is a real tragedy that we find ourselves in this position as I have never known a rider so enthusiastic about any club as Brendan is this season. Of course this injury is a major blow to him and the Warriors, but due to the uncertainty of the injury we felt we had to make changes to the team while he recovers. Brendan is of course still a Warrior and he will help me with other aspects of the club, the riders and get involved with the My First Skid team. We can replace his average but we cannot replace the man.
“It’s unfortunate that bringing in the experienced Benji Compton and talented Kelsey Dugard, meant that Ellis Perks had to be released. The Warriors have already invested in Ellis, so to make this decision was not an easy one as he clearly is a talented rider and we all wish him well. Now with the changes confirmed I hope that all the Warrior fans will welcome Benji and Kelsey to the fold as we get ready for the season.
“The Warriors management would like to thank Conner Dugard and Damien Bates for their support in helping us solve our injury crisis.”
