Latest news with #Kirkcaldy-based
Edinburgh Reporter
2 days ago
- Business
- Edinburgh Reporter
Birbraer heads new ownership at Fife Flyers
Fife Flyers have new owners. A North American-based group has been installed as the new management team to run Britain's oldest professional ice hockey club. Former Israeli international, 44-year-old, former Cardiff Devils winger, Max Birbraer, is the new president and general manager, and a spokesman said: 'We are here to build something special.' Kazakhstan-born Birbraer, drafted in Round 3 and 67th overall by National Hockey League side, New Jersey Devils, in 2000, has started work with the club which was formed in 1938, and bosses confirm they are in 'advanced discussions' to appoint a new head coach. Several core players from last season have been contacted and the new owners plan to build what they described as 'a competitive and committed roster'. Hockey agent, Gareth Chalmers, who parted company as managing director of Glasgow Clan and the Braehead Arena in February this year after more than a decade with the club, has joined the Kirkcaldy-based combine as chief commercial and operations officer. Season ticket details will be revealed soon and the spokesman said: 'We're excited to grow our partnerships and business operations with his leadership.' Flyers new bosses say the hard work starts now and they welcome all commercial inquiries. Plans are being made to connect directly to fans. They could include meet and greet, question and answer or a town hall-style event, and the new regime said: 'We want to hear what matters most to you (the fans), what needs to improve, and how we can earn your trust moving forward.' Bosses plan to be more transparent and to provide detailed communication regarding club's architecture, vision and intention. And the statement declared: 'To every supporter: this is your team. We're honoured to be at the helm, and we're ready to give it everything we've got.' The group moved in after former directors, Tom Muir and Jack Wishart, confirmed in early February that they were stepping down after nearly three years at the helm and the newcomers expressed their thanks to those 'who carried the torch before us'. They added: 'From this moment forward, our group is fully responsible for the direction, development, and future of the club, and we take that responsibility seriously. 'It is an honour to lead the UK's oldest and most iconic hockey team.' They claim their mission is clear, to restore the pride, energy, and identity of Fife Flyers hockey — both on and off the ice. The statement added: 'This is a people's club. Fife is the beating heart of Scottish hockey, and its supporters are the soul of this organization. Your loyalty, your voice, and your passion will shape everything we do. 'We are here to build something special, a first-class hockey experience that reflects the grit and character of this town. Under this leadership, we will lead with transparency, we will compete with pride, and we will always listen.' Like this: Like Related
The Courier
23-04-2025
- Sport
- The Courier
Dundee Planning Ahead: Lochee boxing club expansion proposals
Expansion plans have been lodged for the Lochee Boys and Girls Boxing Club. A planning application has been submitted on behalf of the sports club seeking permission to carry out internal alterations and extend the current facility. According to a supporting statement, there has been a significant increase in young people taking an interest in boxing over the past decade. Lochee Boys and Girls Club, on Loons Road, offers structured training programs, experienced coaching, and a supportive community for young boxers. The proposed extension is 'essential' to accommodate the growing number of young people interested in boxing and other sports. The current facilities are at capacity and limit opportunities for training and development. Beyond boxing, the extension will allow the club to diversify its offerings and support local organisations. The additional space will serve as a flexible, multi-purpose area for community groups, schools, and sporting organisations. Meanwhile, the Old Bank Bar on Reform Street could also undergo external alterations. An application has been lodged with Dundee City Council seeking permission to install replacement signage on the front of the building. This will include illuminated letters spelling out 'Old Bank Bar', three amenity boards, eight floodlights and six internally applied window graphics. Plans have also been lodged for a two-storey house to be built on a strip of land at Broughty Ferry Court. An application has been submitted on behalf of Kirkcaldy-based Barry Spears. He is seeking permission to build the property on land between the existing residential properties at Broughty Ferry Court, off Baldovie Road, and those off Balunie Drive. If approved, the house will have a minimum of two bedrooms and be approximately 120sq m over two floors. Three parking spaces will also be provided – one which can be used as parking for a disabled resident and another will have an electric charging point. Lochee Boys and Girls Boxing Club Old Bank Bar Broughty Ferry house
