The Genting Casino Coventry Blaze are pleased to announce that British defenseman Billy Thorpe has signed an official two-way contract with the club.
Thorpe, 19, whose primary team is the Peterborough Phantoms, impressed during pre-season with the Blaze, scoring in a 6-3 victory over the Essen Mosquitoes. Since then, the 6’1″ blue-liner has played ten games in the NIHL for the Phantoms, registering one goal.
The 2024/25 season marks Thorpe’s third year with the Phantoms, following his development through the Peterborough youth system. In the 2022/23 season, he celebrated an NIHL Cup victory with his hometown club, and last season, he played a crucial role in the Phantoms’ playoff triumph.
Internationally, Thorpe has represented Great Britain at both the under-18 and under-20 levels, earning two bronze medals with the national team.
Blaze Head Coach Kevin Moore said, “Billy is an up and coming young defenceman with great habits. He really impressed us in training camp with his ability to have good gaps and defend hard. We are excited to be able to contribute to Billy’s development the rest of the season.”