ICE HOCKEY: Oxford Stars fans get their first chance to see the new signings when the team take on Coventry Skydome in a challenge fixture on Sunday (6.00).

It's the first of a number of challenge matches before the Stars' regular season begins in mid-September.

Coach Darryl Morvan has re-signed the majority of the team that last year missed out on a play-off spot by just two points, finishing third in their division.

The only departures are Alan Green, who has moved to Wightlink Raiders, Kent Johnson, who has joined Vectis Tigers, and Patrick Knightley, who has hung up his skates.

Coming in from Wightlink Raiders, who play in the higher English Premier League, are Richard Wojciak, who also has experience of playing Elite League with Nottingham Panthers, and Andy Shurmer, an experienced defenceman who has also player for Swindon Wildcats in the EPL.

Also joining Stars from Wildcats is Alan Armour, who has captained Swindon's ENIHL team for the last two years.

Morvan said: "It is a real coup to pick up these three. They all have extensive experience at higher levels, and they all bring a tremendous work ethic as well.

"Losing Alan Green, who was our top goalscorer last year, could have had a serious impact, but the signings of Wojciak, Shurmer and Armour more than compensate for the loss of Alan."

Following a re-structure of the league, Stars will be competing in English National League Division 1 (South).

Stars have also signed three players from the club's junior section - Joe Edwards, Dax Hedges and Adam Harris.