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Forward Jacob Ranson is back with the Invicta Dynamos a decade on from when he last played for the team.
Ranson’s been a target for head coach Karl Lennon over the past couple of years and he’s finally got his man.
Ranson, who featured for the Mos in the 2015/16 season, most recently played National League ice hockey for the Romford Raiders and the Berkshire Bees last season.
He’s delighted to be back in Gillingham and the 29-year-old, speaking to the Mos about his move, said: “Ten years ago, I signed here, got a warm welcome and had a great time. It feels fitting to now return.
“I’ve heard nothing but good things from people I trust and played with for a long time. I’ll be giving 110% to help Invicta become a winning team and can’t wait to get started.”
Lennon said: “I’ve been onto Jacob for a couple of seasons now.
“He’s a player that is held in high regard by those that have played with him.
“He plays with great intensity, and his experience in the National League during recent years will be invaluable.
“I feel he is just the sort of player we need and his quality will no doubt help us get to where we want to be.
“He’s also capable and willing to play across multiple positions, which provides great depth for us. I can’t wait to work with him, and I know he’s eager to get going too.”
Ranson’s arrival follows the news that long-serving defenceman Harrison Lillis has committed for another season.
Lillis has been a main man for the Mos for 14 years but injury disrupted his season last time around. He’s closing in on 500 appearances for the team.
He said: “This club has been a massive part of my life and career, and every time I pull on the jersey, it’s an honour I don’t take for granted.
“Over the years, I’ve built strong relationships with the players, coaches, staff, and most importantly, the fans—who continue to show unwavering support through the highs and the lows.
“The passion in Gillingham is unmatched, and I’m excited to give everything I’ve got for another season to help push this team forward.”
Lennon added: “Harry is as dependable as they come. He’s a player that is super committed to the club and one that we can always rely on to put his maximum effort into training and games.
“His performances last season when available were exceptional, some of his best in a Dynamos jersey and I expect him to maintain that level and even propel himself to a new one.”
Blueliner Regan O’Neil is also returning for the 2025/26 season.
Having come up through the ranks at Invicta, O’Neil’s had a couple of full seasons with the Mos and will be alternate captain next season.
He said: “Happy to be back with the Mos this season and proud to be doing that with an A on my jersey. I’ll embrace the new responsibility I have to the team.
“The squad is looking strong this season and I can’t wait to get back on the ice come September.”
Lennon said: “Reg has been an extremely dependable player and character in the team for the past two seasons and I’m delighted that he will return.
“His performances over the last two years have been very consistent and on top he has accepted any of the additional responsibility I’ve given him.
“I have no doubts with a letter on his jersey we’ll see even more from him. He plays with a grit that I think we need more of in the team.”