DARREN Elliott will remain as Oxford City Stars’ head coach for a third season as they look to make their mark in English National League Division 1.

Elliott, who steered Stars to the Division 2 South title for the previous two campaigns, will have a new assistant in Simon Anderson.

Anderson replaces Paul Donahoe, who is stepping down due to personal reasons.

“I’m thrilled to be back for another season of Stars ice hockey,” said Elliott.

“It’s going to be a huge step up to the higher level, but by adding Simon we’ve got a great coaching team that will be up to the challenge.”

Anderson, who also coached Stars in the first half of the 2009-10 season, rejoins from Canadian side Mattawa Voyageurs, for whom he was director of European scouting.

He said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to return to Oxford.

“When Darren Elliott called me I did not have to think long about joining his coaching staff for next season.

“Speaking to Darren and what he has planned for the team, made my mind up that it was time to get back in.”