Even though the team unfortunately didn’t make the finals at Coventry the Basingstoke Bison will still be represented, not only by over a hundred supporters of the club but also by three members of the Bison backroom staff as Daren Bavister, Graham Bell and Chris Carpenter have all been handed roles as part of the play-off weekend.

Daren, who is better known to the Herd faithful as Bavy, will be leading the event as the announcer for the weekend. It is the second plumb appointment in two weeks for the man with the mic as he was heard across the Sky Sports airwaves as he announced the Elite League Play-off Final to great acclaim last weekend.

“To many the playoffs are the full stop to the season and whether your team are there or not it is always the place to be, this year Coventry is destination to be once more and although my teams will not be there I like many others will be.” says Bavy.

“The excitement, the banter, the chants and the dances, the smiles and the tears will all be in attendance and I for one am proud and honoured to be representing the Basingstoke Bison (all be it impartially).

“The many tunes, songs and chants heard from a wonderful season in Bisonland will all be in attendance and I hope your continued support & smiles will be with me standing loyal and loud.

“Wear your colours with Pride, it has been an honour to be your MC once more, and will be looking for your support again as I take my place in the Skydome alongside you.”

And following a successful first season on Bison TV, Graham has been selected to lead the commentary for the official EPL Finals DVD, with Chris joining him in the commentary box on the Saturday for the semi-finals before handing over to Powerplay Editor Steve Clarke for the final.

“When growing up, I always looked towards the play-off weekend as the pinnacle of the season so to be involved with it is an exciting proposition for me and the fact I will be calling the biggest game of the season is filling me with a mixture of nerves, tension and excitement” said Graham.

“Obviously it’s a shame that the Bison aren’t going to be joining me in Coventry but it makes my job of being ‘impartial’ slightly easier. I don’t know how I would have coped if the boys had made it to the final.

“I see this as recognition for all the work that has been put in by the Bison TV guys this season. I believe our highlight package is unrivalled in the league and am proud to have been part of our productions this season. It will be strange not having the guys around me in Coventry but I cannot wait to get to the Skydome and be part of a very special weekend.”

Director of Hockey Steve Moria has also passed on his praise to both for their work throughout the season and is proud that the Bison will be represented at the finals.

““We are excited that both Bavy and Graham will be an important part of the playoff finals!” said Steve.

“There is no doubt that Bavy is the best announcer in the EPL and probably the best in British Ice Hockey. The fans of all teams present will enjoy Bavy's entertainment factor and he will have them well entertained!” said Steve

“Bison TV has been phenominal this season. Earlier in the season, Bison supporters religiously followed the game highlights, but as the season progressed, other teams supporters were watching. Graham Bell has the likeability factor and the perfect voice for broadcasting, which makes Bison TV excellent.