Ratcliffe Returns as RedHawks Add Danny Milton to 26/27 Coaching Staff

Streatham RedHawks are happy to announce our bench coaches for 26/27, with the return of Stan Ratcliffe and the signing of Danny Milton 

Ratcliffe enters his 4th season behind the bench with the RedHawks having stepped into the role on the eve of the 22/23 season, having iced for the team the previous season. Guiding them from the bench to a league and play-off double in his debut year. Stan has gone onto more success since then most notably applying his tactical insight and leadership skills to help Streatham to both the NIHL1 National Championship in 2024 and NIHL 1 National play off championship in Sheffield this past season. In addition to the RedHawks, Stan will also have his eyes on potential prospects this season as he takes over in the role of head coach for the Streatham academy. 

Stan is happy to be back for another season on the high road. And looking forward to building on the success of 25/26

“I’m delighted to be back at Streatham and once again work with Paynts and the boys. I’m looking forward to building on the success of last year and pushing for even more this season. Really excited to see everyone at the rink in September!”

Danny Milton will be joining Stan on the bench for 26/27. Already a highly rated goalie coach, Danny will be bringing the experience of a multi championship winning netminder and a 16-year career in UK hockey. Having specialised in training young netminders for over a decade. While also working as the video and goalie coach for GB Women’s U18, helping them to a silver medal in the world championships in 2021. 

Danny is happy to back with the team, and excited for his new role. After hanging up the pads after Sheffield. 

“I’m glad to be back with the Redhawks but in a different role this year. I always knew I wanted to do more team coaching once I had retired, and with Stan taking over the juniors, and me wanting a little bit more family time, it was the perfect opportunity to come on board and help out with Paynts and work with Stan. 

Retiring on a high, winning the 3 trophies was an amazing feeling, so I hope to be starting my coaching career doing what I can for the team and bringing back some more trophies!

Enjoy the summer break, look forward to seeing you all in September!”

The duo of Milton and Ratcliffe gives the club a great dynamic of insight, leadership and championship winning experience behind the benches. Coach Paynter is happy to have both back behind the bench

I’m pleased to have Stan back behind the bench for another year. He is someone who has been with me since I stepped into the head coach role and we have built a great relationship over the last few years. He matures every year and has made some big decisions under pressure during games that have paid off and ultimately lead to us winning massive games along the stretch. 

Away from the RedHawks, Stan has taken another step in his coaching career by taking on the head coach role of the junior club, which is a move I think the junior club and Stan will both thrive from as a result. I believe this will help us built a strong bond between the RedHawks and the junior club. He has a great manor with the younger players and lots of fresh ideas, so it is an exciting time for hockey in Streatham. 

With Stan splitting his commitments between the RedHawks and the junior club there was a need for an additional bench coach, Milts is the perfect fit for this, he knows the guys, understands how the club operates and knows exactly what the expectations and standard of the club are. With him helping on the bench last season while injured his transition will be seamless and I think he can add an additional dynamic to our coaching team.