Dave Ryan reports…
Levett Essex Leopards have announced the second member of their 2017/18 roster with the re-signing of guard Dougie Bennett.
It’s a key signing for Coach Thomas Baker as the Brentwood-based player won the club’s Most Improved Player award in 2015/16 but went one better last season as the club’s supporters voted for him as Player of the Year.
Bennett also stepped up to become Captain when Mike Martin was out injured, and Coach Baker is delighted to have him back in the squad for the forthcoming campaign:
“Re-signing Dougie was one of my main priorities for this season. Having already re-signed AJ (Roberts), Dougie adds stability and leadership that is much needed for the squad. Dougie is a great team mate and he is a great to have around, he helps us both on and off the court.
Dougie has shown time and time again the ability he has at this level, and I am confident he will help us get promotion back to Division One.
“I’m looking forward to continuing to build this roster and I am glad that Dougie has agreed to re-sign for us.”
Bennett is hoping to help Leopards’ promotion push: “I’m really happy to have been re-signed by Leopards for the upcoming 2017-18 season.
“I feel coming back was the best thing for me to do following an unsuccessful season last year. Some would call it unfinished business but I prefer redemption!
“Everyone in and around the club have been so supportive of me for the last two years and I am just looking forward to being able to get back on the court and prove we belong back in Division One!”