Bannister hoping to pass on some wisdom

But the former NHL blue-liner is already having a noticeable impact at perennial Elite League strugglers Hull Stingrays as he looks to help turn them into serious contenders for honours.

The 36-year-old underwent a harrowing baptism of fire soon after his arrival 10 days ago when he was part of the Hull team

humiliated 12-0 by a rampant Cardiff Devils in front of the live TV cameras.

The former Tampa Bay Lightning man could have been forgiven for wondering what he had let himself in for, particularly given his impressive CV which has also seen him play in 'The Show' for the Edmonton Oilers, as well as a handful of games with the New York Rangers and the Anaheim Ducks.

Add to those 164 NHL appearances a further 200-plus games in the AHL – North America's second tier – as well as successful spells in Germany, Russia and Finland, and his arrival in Hull caused a few heads to turn.

Having won the Ontario Hockey League twice, the Memorial Cup (Central Hockey League), the Calder Cup (AHL) and the German Bundesliga, it is no surprise Hull billed it as the club's biggest signing.

Being the first to admit he is perhaps in the twilight of his playing career, the chance to also work as an assistant coach under Hull player-coach Sylvain Cloutier was a large factor behind his decision to move to the UK – although he is quick to point out that he is not in any hurry to hang up his skates just yet.

"First and foremost I'm here to play hockey," said Bannister. "I'm here to help the team win and if I can help the defence develop, help the younger players become better then that would be the icing on the cake for me.

"The possibility of helping out on the coaching side made the decision to come here really easy. It's something that I definitely want to do when I'm done playing. I really love the game.

"I've had some great coaches and learned a lot from them and I feel that I'm at the point of my career where I can perhaps pass that kind of experience on to younger players.

"It's something I think I'd be really good at when my playing career is done and I think this is a great opportunity for me to learn from Sylvain."

Bannister acknowledges he has signed up with a team who are proving difficult to pigeon hole, losing heavily to bottom club Dundee Stars one week, then beating leaders Belfast Giants the next.

The 12-0 hammering in Cardiff becomes even more difficult to understand when the Stingrays are then able to go on and beat the likes of Yorkshire rivals and title hopefuls Sheffield Steelers in convincing fashion, as they did

7-2 on home ice on Saturday.

But he has already seen plenty to encourage him and believes the potential at Cloutier's disposal can be realised on a consistent basis.

"Those games (losing 12-0 in Cardiff) happen, but it certainly isn't indicative of how our team is going to be," added Bannister.

"But we bounced back in the next game (in a 1-1 draw against Nottingham Panthers) and we played well. We had a fairly good

week in practice where we changed a few things and it worked well for us against Sheffield. We came to play and we made it tough for them.

"But for us to compete in this league, we have to make it tough every night – we cannot be an easy team to play against like we were in Cardiff."

Eight of the 10 teams in the Elite League qualify for the end of season play-offs, with Hull's initial aim being to finish sixth. It will be some time yet before they can threaten the top five of Belfast, Nottingham, Sheffield, Cardiff and Coventry.

Cloutier is certainly happy to have Bannister on board, convinced his arrival is a serious statement of intent by the club's new owners, who also run rivals Coventry Blaze.

"He is the real deal and a proven winner. It's the biggest signing I have had," said Cloutier. "The calibre of player we are getting is top notch.

"He has been around a long time and his resume speaks for itself. He is so experienced and he is going to help and improve our team so much."

Bannister's arrival has certainly impressed his new team-mates, particularly the younger British players, including 20-year-old forward Matty Davies, now in his second year with Hull.

"Drew coming in is absolutely massive for us," said Davies. "In my opinion he's already made a huge difference and I know a lot of guys feel the same way.

"The way he speaks – he has such a calming influence on the team. Obviously he's been there and he's done it and he has worn the T-shirt – several times. He's unbelievable – if you see him on the ice he's just so calm and smooth and he's got so much skill and ability but it's his experience – that's the biggest thing – the experience that he brings in with him."