The Invicta Dynamos are delighted to announce that 38-year-old centreman Tom Long will return to the roster in September. After a steady season last year, one that was affected by an ongoing back issue, Long is rested and ready to go! A change in his work commitments may have an impact on the regularity of his appearances once again although he is fully behind the team and has agreed to make himself available wherever possible. He brings experience and maturity to the team and will be a calming influence on the younger players coming through the ranks.
Tom Long came to prominence with the Chelmsford Chieftains before stints in the former EPL with the Essex side, Slough Jets, Romford Raider, Wightlink Raiders and Basingstoke Bison between 2002 and 2010. In 272 EPL appearances the forward notched 70 goals 95 assists and 165 points.
In 2010/11 Long then re-joined the Chieftains, now of the NIHL South Division 1, where he enjoyed an empathic return to Essex with 58 points in 37 league outings including 34 goals and 24 assists as one of the club’s alternate captains. This tally was then surpassed the following year – Long finding twine on 30 occasions and playing a role in 40 other strikes for a total of 70 points in 35 games.
Despite his fantastic form and influence on the team, Tom Long bid an emotional farewell to the sport in the summer of 2012 as he put his skates to one side to join the world-renowned Royal Marines. After a brief spell with the Mos in 2017 he returned last season for an extended period. He quickly settled in, but a niggling back injury meant his appearances were curtailed well into the season. He did return for brief spells towards the end of the campaign, but the injury stopped any bouts of consistency. During the 2023/24 season he iced for the club 28 times, scoring 17 goals, assisting in another 18 giving him a total of 35 points.
After confirming his return, Long had this say to “Great to be back again to help, where I can, build on what we achieved last season. See you all in September”!
On securing the services of Long, Lennon added “- I think Longer surprised a lot of people last season with his performances. Speaking honestly, I knew exactly what he would bring to the ice and equally as important, to the dressing room. He’s an out and out leader that holds his teammates accountable and keeps people honest. It’s a huge quality to have in our team. His points production was fantastic and when he missed the close to the season we really felt that loss. He’s excellent in the face-off circle, sharp in front of goal and very strong positionally. Delighted that he’ll be with us again. Even if he can’t make them all, we know he’ll make a difference when he can” 👍
Tom will continue to wear number 71 in September, welcome back Long!
PLAYER SPONSORSHIP
Warm-up Jersey – For just £125 get your name or logo printed on the back of Tom Long’s warm-up jersey. Sponsors are also named on our website and then presented with the jersey to keep at the end of the season.
Game jerseys – For just £175 get your name or logo printed on the back of Tom Long’s home or away game jerseys. Want both? For just £300 get your name or logo on the back of each of Tom Long’s game jerseys. Sponsors are also named on our website and are announced over the loudspeaker during player introductions at every home game and are presented with their jersey (one shirt) at the end of the season. Business sponsors also get their logo placed on our official website.
Contact Sarah Parrish by email at Sarah@invictadynamos.co.uk for player sponsorship details or enquiries. Thank you!