Birnstill completes Steelers’ list

The 25-year-old New York-born blue-liner is the final piece in rookie coach Finnerty’s jigsaw as he prepares a defence of the South Yorkshire club’s Elite League regular season crown.

After a spell with the Youngstown Steelhounds in the CHL, Birnstill has spent the past three years in Denmark, following up two seasons at Frederikshavn with a year at Esbjerg.

Finnerty first signalled his interest in Birnstill over two months ago, but it was not until the possibility of a return to Denmark was ruled out that he was able to go back and convince him that the UK was the place to be. Further recommendations from some of Birnstill’s friends – most notably former Steelers’ forward Joel Irving – helped seal the deal.

“I know a lot of guys who have played in the UK and they have nothing but good things to say about it,” said Birnstill.

“It wasn’t really a hard choice for me to come to Sheffield, there was the possibility of something else, but I was always interested in signing for the Steelers.

“Ryan Finnerty seems like he’s going to become a good coach and I’ve been impressed with the other players he has brought in this summer.”

The capture of Birnstill leaves Finnerty content with his roster less than four weeks before the start of the season. Much like fellow new defensive arrival Matt Stephenson –Birnstill will be expected to make significant offensive contributions.

“Steve will provide that added offensive punch I feel we needed,” said Finnerty. “I like our team overall – I think we’ve got a good blend of skill, toughness and depth.

“The attitude and character of your players is just as important though and I think we’ve got that with our guys.”