New manager for MDL Stags

SCUNTHORPE’S second-half Midland Development League team will have a new manager in 2016, with Nigel Hinchliffe coming on board to take charge of the Stags.

Hinchliffe already has a wealth of experience in the sport, largely at Sheffield Speedway.

Scunthorpe promoter Rob Godfrey said: “We are delighted that Nigel agreed to come and help us out.

“He was the only person we thought about when trying to find someone we trust with the running of the team. He understands what we are trying to achieve with the Midland Development League and will be able to build on what Richard Hollingsworth has already achieved.

“Nigel used to run the second halves and MDL side at Sheffield. Before that, he worked on the hospitality side and has even trained up as a referee.

“It is great to add another quality individual into the ranks and he has already offered to help us out if we are short of a clerk of the course or machine examiner.

“With regards the MDL our aims are clear. We want to reward riders who ride in our amateur meetings with team places and give them a further chance to develop in our second halves. That in turn should attract riders into our amateur meetings, while also giving the fans some additional racing after Scorpions’ meetings have finished.”

Hinchliffe added: “Scunthorpe Speedway has a great reputation within the sport for developing young riders. The professional leagues are littered with riders who have cut their teeth on the Scunthorpe training track and honed their skills in the amateur meetings.

“I am thrilled to be joining the club and want to contribute to this tradition by working with the riders who are ready to take their first competitive team races at Midland Development League level.

“I want to raise the profile of the Stags and we are already in the process of building a page on Facebook where supporters can follow the fortunes of the team as the season unfolds.

“I hope fans will also stay behind after the main meetings to watch the Stags matches as your support is a tremendous boost for the lads. The MDL races can be great fun to watch and it can be fascinating to see the stars of tomorrow learning their trade.”