Lee Valley Lions have announced the signing of prospect netminder Brett Shepherd and the re-signing of Robin Young for the 2017/18 season.

Shepherd joins the club on a two-way deal with National South One club Streatham IHC, where he will split his time between Streatham’s under-18s, the Lions and the RedHawks this season.

Last season the 16-year-old was given the opportunity to play behind Matt Colclough, whilst posting 89.2 per cent for the club’s under-18s and in 2015, Brett was selected to play for the South East under-15s.

Streatham Head Coach Jeremy Cornish said: “Brett is a young, up and coming goalie that I had the pleasure to get to know last season.

“He works extremely hard in training, challenges shooters and never gives up on a play.

“I look forward to seeing the progress he will make by training with us and getting action with Lee Valley this season.”

Returning to the roster is experienced defenceman Young who is returning for his third term in the green and blue.

The former Chelmsford Chieftains and Romford Raiders player originally joined the club for the 2014/15 season and is looking forward to getting started.

“After seeing the Lions’ progress last year, I’m really excited to be coming back for another season at Lee Valley to take on the challenging new league format,” the 38-year-old admitted.

“Whilst family commitments may keep me from being available for every game, I hope I can still have an impact and perhaps pass on some of my experience to the younger players whenever possible.”

Head coach George Alley added: “With the market for new players being squeezed with the addition of the new clubs, I’m pleased we’ve been able to add some depth in goal, and Robin has been a key man in the dressing room the last couple of seasons.

“I’ve been in talks with Jeremy about Brett’s availability and Streatham’s plans for him for a while.

“His junior coach at Streatham (Adam Goldstone) is eager for him to be exposed to the senior game as much as possible.

“Being only 16 he has very good composure and I’m excited about having a chance to work with him this season, and it’s vital that we have depth and competition for places, especially in goal.

“Robin has a lot of experience in the British game and possesses great technical ability I hope we can utilise this season. He’s also a calm head ahead in the dressing room that will be crucial with the level of competition we’ll be facing this year.”