Alto is back – and he’s raring to go

Jul 11 2008 by David Triggs, Chester Chronicle

BIG Storage Cheshire Jets have sealed a swoop for former Northgate Arena favourite Alto Virgil.

The 6ft 2in guard left the Jets last summer and spent last season with Sheffield Sharks – but he has been lured back to Chester by head coach Paul Smith.

Virgil, who turns 26 later this month, said: “It is a real pleasure to come back to the club that launched my professional career. Above all, I can’t wait to play in front of the Northgate crowd that always gave me such great support.

“It will be good to play there again as a home player. I am truly confident that I can play my part in making the Jets a force to be reckoned with again in the BBL.”

Head coach Smith added: “We are really pleased that Alto will be part of our squad for next year. All Jets fans will know exactly what to expect – 100% commitment at all times with the ability to make others play with his passing, and a sweet outside shot.

“If he can put up the sort of numbers that he did the last time he was here, then we should see some impressive results.”

Virgil, who holds dual British/American nationality, made an instant impact on his Jets debut against Scottish Rocks in October, 2006. Jets won 89-86 and Virgil finished up as the game-high scorer with 29 points.

He played in all 36 league games during the 2006-07 season, averaging more than 36 minutes per game, and an impressive 18.36 points per game.