A Heartfelt Tribute to Two Deeside Legends

From the very first moment Marc Lovell and James Parsons laced up their skates in Deeside, they captured our hearts. Night after night, season after season, they poured their passion into this club—racking up countless goals, assists, and unforgettable moments that shaped not just our team’s legacy, but our entire hockey community.

These two stalwarts didn’t just wear the Deeside Dragons crest—they lived it. Their loyalty, skill, and sheer love of the game radiated from the ice, igniting a spark in everyone who watched. Whether it was Marc’s rock-solid presence and clutch two-way play, or James’s electrifying scoring touch and indomitable spirit, each brought something special that lifted the team to new heights. Their stats alone—hundreds of games, goals, assists, and points—are a testament to their brilliance. Yet, what will remain long after the numbers are forgotten is the pride and devotion they inspired in us all.

To see both Marc and James retiring from the Dragons is profoundly bittersweet. We’ve spent countless evenings cheering them on, celebrating every goal, groaning with every near-miss, and standing as one whenever they led us to victory. As fans, we feel the weight of their absence already, but we also feel a tremendous sense of gratitude. Words can’t begin to express how much we appreciate their years of sacrifice, leadership, and unwavering dedication to Deeside hockey.

Though they’ll be stepping away from the ice, their journey with us is far from over. Marc and James will continue shaping the future of Deeside hockey as they share their expertise and passion with our juniors. Their legacy will live on in every young player they mentor, inspiring the next generation to work hard, dream big, and carry the same sense of pride that Marc and James exemplified for so long.

Thank you, Marc Lovell and James Parsons, for everything. You’ve given us lifelong memories, incredible moments of triumph, and above all, an enduring sense of community. You may be hanging up your skates, but you’ll forever remain a part of our Deeside Dragons family—and we’ll cheer you on just as fiercely in your next chapter as we did every time you hit the ice.

The club will be looking to honour both players this summer, with a fitting tribute to celebrate everything they’ve given to Ice Hockey in Deeside — on and off the ice.

Mike Clancy – Head Coach, Deeside Dragons:
“Losing two players of this calibre is a huge challenge to overcome. To say they broke the mould when they first stepped onto the ice in Deeside is a complete understatement.

I’ve had the privilege of watching both Marc and James grow from juniors into senior players, and they’ve always carried themselves with professionalism and pride. They are hugely respected throughout the club and are fantastic role models for any young player coming through the system under Larry and Snip’s guidance.

While their playing careers may have come to an end, they are far from done. Their influence, leadership, and love for the game will continue to shape the future of Deeside hockey through their work with our thriving junior club.

From me, it’s a massive thank you for everything you’ve given—and continue to give—to the Deeside Dragons.”

Shaun Bebbington – General Manager, Deeside Dragons:
“Marc and James aren’t just players—they’re pillars of this club. What they’ve given to the Deeside Dragons can’t be measured in stats alone. They’ve led by example, inspired generations, and carried this club through its highest highs and toughest times. It’s been an honour to have them wear our colours, and it’s a comfort to know their legacy will continue through the junior programme. Legends, through and through.”

Mikey Rowe – Director, Deeside Dragons:
“Throughout my time with the club—as a fan and as part of the management group—I’ve seen Marc and James become the heart and soul of Deeside hockey. They’ve given us memories that will live forever—moments of magic, resilience, and leadership that truly define what it means to be a Dragon. As they move into coaching, they’re not stepping away—they’re building the future. I’m proud to call them teammates, mentors, and above all, friends. Marc and James epitomise our slogan #BeMoreDragon—because honestly, no one could be more Dragon than those two.”