Star Forward Benedict Is Back With The Giants

Posted on Tuesday, July 6th, 2010 at 8:59 am

Belfast Giants are pleased to announce the return for a second season of Brandon Benedict. The 28 year old Canadian forward returns on the back of a successful season in Belfast where he finished 3rd in the team points table. Despite missing 13 games through injury, Benedict scored 22 goals and 51 assists for 73 points in 58 games played.  He was named Giants Coach’s Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year.  He is also finishing his MBA at the University of Ulster this summer.

Head Coach Doug Christiansen is delighted that Benedict is returning to Belfast: “Brandon was the priority signing for me from my first day on the job. He had a lot of exceptional opportunities and I am really pleased he is coming back to Belfast. Coaching against him was a nightmare and I am really excited to have him on our team.  He is as complete of a player as there is in the league and he is incredibly unselfish.  Steve Thornton raved about his personality and willingness to compete.  I truly believe him coming back to Belfast is a real testament to the organisation and the fans. He has chosen to come back because of how much he enjoyed playing in Belfast.  It is exciting to have a player that is committed not just to the team but also the city.”

GM Todd Kelman added “I am delighted that Benedict is returning to Belfast. He was a central part of our success last season and was sorely missed when he was injured.  I considered Brandon one of the top 5 players in the Elite League last year and expect him to be the same this year.  His unmatched work ethic and pure skill makes him a natural leader for our team and I am expecting even bigger things from him this season.”

Speaking from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Benedict said “I am delighted to be returning to Belfast for a second season. Our team looks really exciting so far and I really hope we can build on the playoff championship we won at the end of the season.”