April 30 was an important date for HC Ajoie. It was the last day for the club’s top two players to have an exit clause to play in the National League. But neither Jonathan Hazen nor Philip-Michaël Devos won an elite contract. The insecurity of the moment due to the crisis of the new coronavirus probably helped the Voyeboeuf club to retain its leaders. “All the elite clubs are awaiting May 11 and future decisions by the Federal Council,” said Vincent Léchenne, Ajoulot sports director. One of the agent asked us for more time, but we didn’t get into it. “
At the elite level
A decision necessarily validated by coach Gary Sheehan: “I was prepared for a possible departure of the two players,” he said. From then on, I started to watch the foreigners market. But having to hire good people in early May would have been very complicated. It was impossible to lose another two weeks. Good recruitment is already preparing for Christmas. ”
So Hazen and Devos did not turn the heads of the National League leaders. On the ice, however, they have repeatedly proven that they can race against elite formations. The most striking proof was given on February 3, during the Swiss Cup final won against Davos. “And that was no exception,” says Gary Sheehan. You just have to look at our Cup journeys in recent years or our friendly matches. ” The technician is almost surprised to be able to keep his magic duo: “I really thought they would get their chance. So it’s a relief but also a surprise. If you look at the staff in the first division, I am sure they could have had their place somewhere. “
There will be ambitions
In order not to rejoice too soon, Vincent Léchenne waited until the last moment to announce the good news around him. “With the time difference, we really waited until the deadline had passed by everyone. It’s an incredible opportunity to have two amazing players for another year. Or maybe more. ” It is true that at the age of 29 and 30, respectively, Jonathan Hazen and Philip-Michaël Devos may draw a line under the National League. “This is not happening yet, but we are bound to start discussions on the future soon,” said the HCA leader.
With the certainty concerning Hazen and Devos, the Porrentruy club can therefore think of the next season more calmly. “We already have seven defenders and twelve attackers under contract, specifies Vincent Léchenne. With the entry into the new rink, the ambitions will be there even if we have rejuvenated our team again. ” The Voyeboeuf site is not too disturbed by the consequences of the coronavirus. “Let’s say that the site turns at 60 or 70% of its capacity. It should be in order for the start of the next championship. ”
Grégory Beaud
Created: 01.05.2020, 4:06 p.m.
–
