Huge Step Forward for the Steeldogs as Jamie Mcllroy Appointed GM.
Steeldogs owner Tony Smith called it “A momentous day” after appointing Jamie Mcllroy as the clubs first General Manager since he took over the Dogs some 12 months ago.
“When we took over the Steeldogs we said we were in it for the long term and fans would see the results by our actions not by our words. I think the progress we have made this summer has been outstanding with first the appointment of Ben Morgan, followed by the various signings we have released and several more we haven’t yet confirmed.
“None of those signings are as important as this one and I am delighted to welcome Jamie officially on board with the Steeldogs. Jamie is professional, diligent but most of all passionate about the Dogs.
“We have already seen his work at first hand and how he interacts and works alongside those at the Steeldogs and the Steelers, it is a first class appointment and one that will see him take on the day to day duties in running a club like this
“Jamie is no stranger to pressure and hard work after completing 22 years in the RAF, including tours of Iraq, Afghanistan and the Falklands. His list of honours and achievements are impressive, and we hope he adds to those in his time with us
“We learnt a lot of lessons in our first season, we reacted to that and have made significant changes to both the on and off ice side of the Steeldogs business. We believe that the Mcllroy / Morgan partnership is one that will lead the Steeldogs in the right direction and encourage a pathway of local youngsters ready to make their way in the professional game”
Mcllroy went on to say “When Tony approached me to interview for the position of General Manager, it was something that immediately appealed to me. I’ve made my feelings clear over the years about how I’ve always wanted young British players to have a clear pathway to playing at the top tier in their own country. The reorganisation and restructure of the Steeldogs/Steelers setup, will now make that a genuine reality.
“Myself, Morgs and the whole Management Team have done a lot of work in the background to ensure that this Season’s roster is one that will excite the fanbase and be competitive on all fronts. I’m genuinely excited to be taking on this new role, and I will work tirelessly to ensure that the fans have a team to be proud of.
“Sheffield is a genuine ‘Hockey City’, and we have the opportunity to totally transform the way that the sport operates at all levels in the UK. This is the beginning of something special.