Leeds Knights Ice Hockey Club are delighted to confirm that Warwick Andrews has been appointed the new Managing Director of the club. Warwick has been working with club owner Steve Nell behind the scenes throughout the past year. After an already successful year, Warwick is looking forward to further developing Leeds Knights’ first chapter.

Warwick believes there is huge potential to grow ice hockey in Leeds and said “I’m delighted to be given the chance to build-on the Knights’ first year in the National League. We’ve seen some great successes on the ice and learnt a great deal about how we can connect hockey with fans and local businesses in and around Leeds. This off-season period is when the hard work starts as we build the Knights’ community for next season.”

As Managing Director, Warwick will focus on building strong relationships with a network of commercial partners in and around Leeds, securing sponsorship for the 2022-23 season, and, connecting with local communities to showcase what is great about ice hockey, to grow the fanbase, and to create the best and most unique fan experience in Leeds.

Warwick has lived in Leeds for over 20 years and as a long-time hockey fan, is eager to grow the sport with fans and the business community across the city.

“Hockey is new to Leeds and the fans have been brilliant this year. As the season has progressed, we have had more and more interest from schools, local community groups and businesses wanting to have an association with the Knights, and experience match night at the rink. We couldn’t have asked for a better start, yet I believe the potential is even greater and we want to establish the Knights as one of Leeds’ best sporting experiences for all – the ‘coolest night in Leeds’ that’s for sure!”

Warwick has spent a large part of his career as an advisor and sports consultant working with some of the most well-known teams in professional sport and in Olympic and Paralympic sport. Having started his career as a sports scientist and working with athletes in a range of sports, Warwick progressed into working for national agencies in the sports industry before establishing himself as a specialist in people development, leadership and business strategy in the sports industry.

Owner Steve Nell is delighted with the new appointment, stating “Warwick has been an asset to the Knights this season, his previous experience in business and sport linked with his passion for Leeds and the Knights makes it a great fit. I’m looking forward to working with Warwick to make the Knights an integral part of the Leeds landscape in the years ahead.”

We hope Leeds Knights fans will join us in welcoming Warwick in his new position.