BARI McKENZIE has signed a new two-year deal with Braehead Clan.

The Dumfries-born forward agreed his contract after a first campaign in which he won the Gardiner Conference and picked up 15 points in his 59 games.

He arrived at the Clan in 2015 after two years at Dundee Stars and has also played for Edinburgh Capitals, Cardiff Devils, Belfast Giants, Basingstoke Bison and Coventry Blaze in the Elite League.

“For me, there was never a question of whether or not he was coming back," said head coach Ryan Finnerty. "Bari was always on the list to make sure we got tied-up.

“I enjoyed working with him and he was pretty popular in the dressing-room. Bari gave us a different element on the ice, plus he accepted his role in the team.

“I thought he did a great job when he had to step up and play big minutes and contributed, which makes him a valuable asset to us.

“I like the way he goes about his business. He’s professional and plays hard. Bari’s always keen to learn and was well liked in the locker room last season.

“His job is to come in and continue to push guys and give us that extra dimension. I’m expecting a little more from him next season and knowing him, he’ll push himself to achieve that.”

Gareth Chalmers, Hockey & Operations Director, insists it remains hugely important to the club to have Scots talent on the ice as they bid to build the brand.

“Bari is a guy that has a lot of respect from everyone involved in the organisation, so it was an easy decision to offer him a new contract," he said.

“We want local players in the team and, with Bari being from the West of Scotland, I am in no doubt he’ll have a big part to play in our continued progression heading into the future.”