Bari McKenzie has left Manchester Phoenix to sign a two-year contract with Elite League outfit Dundee Stars.
The Dumfries-born forward (pictured, centre) arrived at the Altrincham Ice Dome from the Cardiff Devils in December and, after a slow start, played an important role in Phoenix’s EPL playoff victory, scoring in the semi-final shootout against Basingstoke Bison and notching an assist on a James Archer goal in the 5-2 win over the Guildford Flames in the final.
He finished the season with 10 goals and 10 assists for 20 points in 29 games.
McKenzie had previously won the EPL playoff title with the Milton Keynes Lightning and has also picked up gold medals at U18 and U20 level with Great Britain. He is no stranger to Dundee, having played for Solway Sharks against the Stars prior to their move to the Elite League.
Speaking to the Stars’ website, McKenzie said it had been “a pleasure” to play for Phoenix but Dundee head coach Jeff Hutchins had convinced him to return north of the border.
“After speaking to Hutchy, I didn’t really have to think twice about signing. He has great plans for the club and I can’t wait to be a part of it,” he added.
“Dundee were so unlucky to lose out on the conference last season and I’m sure we can rectify that and go one better and win it next season.
“I would like to thank Manchester Phoenix for last season, I had a great time there and they do have a great set up all the way through and it was a pleasure to play there.”
By Andy Jowett
Pic: Richard Amor-Allan