Paul Lane ‘honoured’ to be named Bulldogs captain

LEADING MAN: Paul Lane has been named captain for the Bulldogs for the 2026-27 NIHL North Two season. Picture: Jason Devanney/View From Up Here Photography

PAUL LANE admits it is a “huge honour” to be named Bradford Bulldogs captain for the 2026-27 NIHL North Two season. 

The forward - who joined the club midway through the 2025-26 campaign - has made a big impression on the players around him as well as the new-look coaching team of Dave Williams, Mike Forbes and Josh Stockton which was formed in the summer. 

The announcement of the team’s leadership group was made just a few hours before Sunday’s home game against unbeaten league leaders Sutton Sting, who won 9-4. 

Paul, who posted eight goals and seven assists in 15 games last season, said: “It’s a huge honour to be named captain of the Bulldogs. 

“I’m incredibly proud to lead the team both on and off the ice this season. 

“Together, we’ll give everything for the jersey, battle for each other, and aim to make this one of the most successful seasons Bradford has had in a long time.” 

LEADERSHIP GROUP: Bulldogs captain Paul Lane (centre) is flanked by assistant captains Ben Darbyshire (left) and Connor Medley.

Forward Connor Medley and defenceman Ben Darbyshire have been named as the team’s two assistant captains. 

Player-coach Dave Williams said Paul was a standout candidate to wear the ‘C’ when the coaching team got down to discussing the leadership group earlier this month. 

“Making Paul captain was a decision that Mike, Josh and myself were instantly agreed on,” said Dave. 

“There was no debate between us as we all felt Paul was the right person to lead this team. 

“He brings a huge amount of experience and leadership, but also conducts himself well both on and off the ice.”