The “Shudra” name will always be synonymous with Sheffield hockey.
Rocket Ron, the original Steelers superstar, his eldest son, Cole Shudra, the 2024 Grand Slam Steeler and now Tate Shudra (19) joins the ranks of Sheffield’s most famous hockey family in signing a two-way contract with the Steelers and Steeldogs.
On announcing the deal, Steeldogs head coach Ben Morgan said “I’m really excited to be working with Tate for another season and seeing him play an even more important role on the team.
“When numbers were low last season and Tate had the opportunity to step up and play on our top two lines, he did just that and stepped up.
“Tate has all the attributes to continue to develop into an established NIHL player and with time and support, potentially even higher”.
Too young to have watched his Dad hit the heights, Tate explained to play alongside his brother for the Steelers is the ultimate aim. “Getting to play for the team I have always looked up to is a dream. If I am able to do that alongside Cole then I think that would be the ultimate experience!
“There is a long way to go before that happens though. Playing for the Dogs and training with the Steelers can only help me on that journey. I enjoyed my time last year but there seems to be so much more buzz about the place for the Dogs this season with Ben taking charge and more involvement from the Steelers”.
Talking of the sibling rivalry, Tate explained “Cole and I of course love to battle, he has a few years on me, but when we are on the ice together training I am sure the levels go up about three times. I’m so proud how he has worked so hard to become a full time professional and I want to emulate him”.