The most decorated player in the history of Sheffield ice hockey is back for another season with the Steeldogs after the confirmation that Jonathan Phillips would return for a second season with the NIHL club.
After playing 1,042 games with the Steelers, Jonathan Phillips moved to the Steeldogs last year to assist in passing on his incredible experience and knowledge to the younger players coming through the system.
With the great changes made over the summer Phillips is as enthusiastic as ever for the season ahead “I love the game, everyone knows that and to be able to pass on anything I have to these talented youngsters I am happy to do so
“The signings Ben has made this summer gives me great hope for the future of hockey here in Sheffield, not only with the Steeldogs but with the Steelers as well. There is a pathway available here and I hope there is real competition amongst our players here for a chance to play at the higher level
“I really enjoyed my first year with the Steeldogs, despite many challenges. Knowing the ownership and management so well from my time with the Steelers I knew that huge improvements would be made this coming year but even I am surprised how quickly and how big those changes are. It gives this old man a youthful feeling again that we are all playing for something with real meaning and I can’t wait to get right at it”
Head coach Ben Morgan commented “I think it’s fair to say that there isn’t a team in the league that wouldn’t want Jonathan Phillips on their roster.
“With such a young team next season Jona provides another layer of experience and leadership which he takes naturally to. Supporting and naturing the next generation of player is part of his DNA”