Today’s signings in the EIHL.

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An early morning announcement saw the arrival of Liam Stewart to Coventry Blaze. Son of the pop idol Rod Stewart he is only twenty one and has played mainly in the United States until now. He spent four seasons with the Spokane Chiefs in the WHL before moving to the Alaska Aces of the ECHL. However, due to injury he was only able to play thirteen times for them. He did not see the US as a great fit for himself and when he was contacted by coach Danny Stewart he relished the chance of continuing his career in Great Britain. “Liam is a very important signing for us,” Blaze coach Danny Stewart said. “He adds to our depth which will be crucial next season.  With many teams looking to play four-lines or close to next season, it’s important we have capable guys that can take minutes away from our top-six forwards and produce themselves.”

As he played his junior career abroad Stewart is classed as an import even though he has British citizenship. 

The Edinburgh Capitals finally appointed a player-coach. Former Czech international defender, Michal Dobron put pen to paper after initially contacting General Manager Scott Neil with a view to returning to Scotland. “The King”, as he is known to fans, played in Edinburgh between 2012 and 2014 making ninety nine appearances in the EIHL during that time. Speaking from his Prague home Dobron said “I feel that I can bring many benefits to the Edinburgh Capitals through my vast experience of ice hockey over the years. When it comes to recruitment there are many great European and North American players available, but the team has to be built with sensitivity and I will take my time to assemble the best squad for the Edinburgh Capitals fans. I really enjoyed the time that I spent in Edinburgh before. I want to achieve the best results possible and treat the fans to hockey that will be interesting to watch and also effective.” 

He will combine his time by completing a six month program that will see him gaining his level B coaching qualification. He also has a close bond with Marin Cingel, the newly appointed coach of the Edinburgh Capitals SNL team which will undoubtedly aid him during the season.

The final signing was a contract extension for the Braehead Clan. Matt Heywood re-signed for the new season. After missing early season through injury he recovered to complete forty three EIHL games. Head coach, ryan finnerty said :

“The important thing for Matt is he stays fit in the new season.  Unfortunately for him, it hasn’t been small injuries he’s suffered from.  

When he plays, he’s consistent on the ice and that’s a big thing.  We hope he can stay injury free instead of sitting out for a period of time. But everybody’s a Haywood fan.  He’s a guy who can play anywhere on your line and a popular guy in the room.  He’s a good professional and he’s been here a long time.

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