BEN Clements has stepped down as coach of the Chelmsford Chieftains.

Clements, who stepped up to the role last season, makes the decision after the Chieftains lost in the National Ice Hockey League Division Two play-off final.

Clements said: “It has been a really tough decision to make as coaching this season has been both an enjoyable and challenging experience.

“While I have enjoyed the coaching side of things, I have really missed playing the game and I would really like to play competitively again while I am young enough to do so.”

Fixtures for the new season will be published at the end of July.