The off-ice report

Tuesday, 18th April 2006

With Manchester's "Meet The Coach" event scheduled for Wendesday evening, all eyes are on the Phoenix as they prepare to unveil the identity of the head coach that will lead the squad into the 2006-2007 season. However, Manchester isn't the only place where preparations are underway!

Cardiff Devils coach Ed Patterson has been quick off the blocks in the signing stakes this summer, retaining the services of 6'5" forward Brad Voth. The former Peoria Rivermen and Columbus Cottonmouths right winger picked up 28 points with the Devils last season, and will return for his second season with the Welsh team when they take to their new ice this coming season, following the end of their tenure at the Wales National Ice Rink in Cardiff.

The futures of Cardiff's Kirk DeWaele and Rejean Stringer look to be in doubt following early reports indicating that they may have retired. These reports are unconfirmed at this time.

Rob Wilson has hinted that he won't be hanging up his skates as originally planned this summer, thanks to the persuasive powers of team-mate Paul Ferone. The Newcastle Vipers player-coach was speaking after his team picked up the Elite League Play-Off Trophy at the National Ice Centre in Nottingham, and he revealed how Ferone had helped him to reconsider retirement. "I didn't want to play on," said Coach Wilson, "but Paul threatened me if I didn't!"

Sheffield Steelers are already planning their pre-season training camp with plans for home and away exhibition games and a possible trip to Germany. Steelers coach Dave Whistle feels that pre-season fixtures are the best way for a squad to gel, saying "The trip abroad will be a good way to get the guys together as a team."

by Richard Allan

News

The off-ice report