It is great news for fans of speedway on the Isle of Wight as Neil Vatcher is unveiled as the Wightlink Warriors speedway team manager for the 2016 season.
Neil, who has managed in speedway for many years and is also the Team GB Under 21 Manager, has already been assisting the Warriors off the track with the team and other managerial tasks.
Bringing his wealth of experience with him to the Isle of Wight, Neil said:
“I am very honoured to have been asked to join the new management team on the Isle of Wight for the 2016 season, and become the Team Manager in this new era under the ownership of Barry and Martin.
“I have been in contact with the Island management during the winter and have been proud to have been involved in selecting the 2016 Warriors, of which I think by now it is common knowledge that everyone involved in the Island are very excited about the setup of the team for the forthcoming season. I believe that as a brand new team, who only 2 months ago had no riders at all, we have assembled a team that not only can challenge for honours, but will be an entertaining team on track and I am sure along with the Warriors’ supporters will also be a fun team to be involved in.
“For me personally, back in the National League after being at Lakeside for 5 seasons, I believe this is a new challenge for me and one that I am very excited about and very much looking forward too. Also I am looking forward to working closely with all the riders and making it a successful year for Island speedway both on and off the track.
“I would like to thank both Barry and Martin for giving me the opportunity of this new challenge, and I am looking forward to meeting up with everyone real soon”.
Warriors’ joint boss, Barry Bishop, said:
“Martin and I are thrilled to be able to let the Warrior faithful know who their team manager will be this year. Neil came to our first forum in May 2015 and he was a joy to speak with then. He offered Martin and I support by way of advice if we needed it as we begun this project but also he bought in to what we wanted to achieve with the Warriors and making the team something the people of the Isle of Wight will be proud of.
“With the team and the Island in mind Neil has been fantastic in helping us identify what can seen as a team that will challenge for honours but also a team that will grow together as its riders develop. It’s been a fantastic start to our season so far and this week will see not only the appointment of our Team Manager but also on Friday (19th Feb) is the day the airfence arrives. Another milestone in the project and a day of great personal pride for Martin and I and all those who have shown such commitment to the Warriors in the Team Warrior work parties.”
