Arena-Essex have announced that Colin White is to continue as captain of the Hammers this season.

The rider, who took on the mantle last season to good effect, was delighted to be offered the opportunity to continue.

He said: "I'm really pleased and hopeful that I can lead the team to some trophies this year.

"I thoroughly enjoyed skippering the team last year and with Martin Goodwin as team manager, I'm hopeful that we can give the fans something to celebrate this time around.

White added: "We came close last season when we were losing finalists to Edinburgh in the Knockout Cup and we have a chance to grab revenge for that defeat when we meet them in the opening round of the cup this season.

''I am pleased with the team that's been assembled, it looks well balanced. Our top three did well last year and Gary Corbett and Matt Read gained a lot of experience. If our reserves can score consistently then we should do well."

The appointment of White, 27, was made by manager Martin Goodwin who explained: "Colin leads by example. He never shirks an issue and I was always impressed with his attitude last season.

''Between the two of us, I'm hopeful that we can get the maximum from each rider."

Certainly captaincy was no burden to White who invested heavily in new equipment last season and was well rewarded as his average soared to an overall 8.76 with a phenomenal home statistic of 10.33,

His consistently high returns both home and away served the Hammers admirably and also earned the rider a number of guest bookings.

Colin White, who will captain the Arena Essex Hammers in the forthcoming season.

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