BLACKBURN Hawks have announced major changes to the team management structure ahead of tonight’s game away to Newcastle Vipers.

After long discussions with senior figures from both the Blackburn Arena and the ice hockey team, Wayne Slater has decided to step down as head coach.

Slater, who will continue to play for the Hawks, has been replaced by former defencemen and fans’ favourite Neil Abel.

Abel was instrumental in taking the Sheffield Scimitars to the league title in successive seasons and will be joined by the experienced Les Millie, who will fulfil a dual role of player and assistant coach.

Slater said: “What the team has missed for the last few years is an independent and very experienced head coach, who is able to take the Hawks forward.

“I would like to thank the Arena and Hawks management for all the hard work they have done behind the scenes, and also the many fans for their tremendous support and understanding that has been shown over the last few weeks.”

General manager Andy Slater said: “Wayne is well-respected by the Arena management, fans and players, and his personal commitment to the Hawks over the years goes without question. He has come up through the ranks, having started playing for the Hawks at the age of 14, and will continue to be a valuable member of the team.”

Despite the disappointment of Wayne’s decision, Andy admits that the Hawks will benefit from the changes in the long term.

“Signing Neil is a major coup for the Hawks,” he added.

“I genuinely believe that this is the best thing to have happened to the Hawks in recent years.”

Hawks will be without the suspended Chris Arnone against Newcastle Vipers tonight and are hoping to end their current run of nine straight league defeats.