Panthers first port of call for May

Nottingham Panthers Director of Hockey Guillaume Doucet revealed new signing Johno May has been eyeing up a move to Europe for a while now.

The 6’ 5” forward has agreed to join the club for the Elite Series and is making his first move away from North America for the next phase of his career.

And it’s something Doucet revealed the 27-year-old was keen to do after leaving ECHL side Orlando Solar Bears to come to the UK.

“Johno’s been playing pro for a while and was looking to come to Europe so I’m pleased we’ve convinced him to come here for that first step,” Doucet said.

“Numbers aren’t everything, but in Johno’s case, they are a good indication.  He’s a good player and he felt this was a good time for him to come over.

OFFICIAL: The Nottingham Panthers have signed forward Johno May (@JMayJr12) for April’s #2021EliteSeries. ?#BeTheRoar | #EIHL | #PanthersNation pic.twitter.com/ADG9zhY4wn

— The Nottingham Panthers | #2021EliteSeries (@PanthersIHC) March 22, 2021

“He’s another player we’ve brought in who are in the shop window with a view to next season.  We get the first look at them and working with them.”

Prior to the Solar Bears, May played for Greenville Swamp Rabbits after leaving American International College in 2018.

Doucet outlined what he’ll bring to the team and warned May, along with other players in the team, may be utilised differently.

“Johno’s a big forward who can play in the wing or in the centre,” Doucet added. “He can bring offence and I think he’s going to be a great fit.  

“He prefers to play on the wing and I’ve already said the fans can expect a different formation from us, especially in the first few games as the guys get to know the system.

“So don’t be surprised of Johno plays on the wing at first then moves into the centre as we go on.”