Coach Paul Thompson unveils vision for Sheffield Steelers' future success

Today sees the Steelers launch a groundbreaking initiative for the sport in the UK by signing two local youngsters on a three-year apprenticeship scheme.

After rising through the junior ranks at the Sheffield Academy and gaining their first regular taste of men’s hockey with English Premier League neighbours Sheffield Steeldogs this season, forwards Cole Shudra – son of Steelers’ legend Ron – and Liam Kirk have been handed a unique opportunity.

The programme will see the promising teenagers combine being full-time hockey players with continuing their education.

For Thompson, it marks the start of what he hopes will become a regular conveyor belt of locally-drawn talent for the defending Elite League champions.

“I want every kid in Sheffield to know that if they are good enough we will find them,” said Thompson. “The pathway is being put in place so youngsters can see their way to skating out at the Arena for the Steelers.

“There isn’t any pressure on these two for next season. They will be with us every day, on the ice and in the gym.

“They will be on the team for pre-season and exhibition games.

“We will most probably loan them back to the Steeldogs where they will gain valuable ice time. They are a project and we will give them every chance to succeed.

“These two boys want it, you can see that working with them. If they aren’t ready in year one we know we have time on our side.”

Steelers’ owner Tony Smith said Thompson’s vision to produce local talent for the club was one of the reasons he was appointed last summer.

“We like and share the vision that Paul has bought,” said Smith.

“This is why Paul is here – to bring this structure to the organisation; to think ahead, to bring on the best young players we can find. I want to see Sheffield-born and bred players wearing our shirt.”

While Thompson is laying the foundations for what he hopes will be a period of sustained success for the club, of more immediate concern to him was last night’s duel between Belfast Giants and the Steelers’ title rivals, Cardiff Devils, in Northern Ireland.

A 5-2 win for the hosts was the ideal outcome for the Steelers, who now control their own destiny and know that wins over Nottingham and Fife this weekend – a far from simple task – will be enough to secure a second straight regular season title and their fifth during the EIHL era.

Swedish exchange scheme launched for EIHL officials

Elite League chairman Tony Smith says an initiative that will see leading match-night officials work closely with their Swedish counterparts is another sign of progress for the UK’s top flight.

Two top Swedish match officials will be involved in this weekend’s fixtures as part of the EIHL’s referee and linesman development programme.

Jim Bergqvist and David Herrwaldsson will be officiating in Manchester on Saturday and Coventry on Sunday, with an exchange programme planned for the next few seasons.

Elite League chairman Smith – also owner of Sheffield Steelers – said: “We have been exploring lots of different options as to how we can help improve and develop our officials.

“They have a very difficult job and are a crucial part of our game and we have to try and give them as much help as possible.

“It’s the first step in trying to give our officials the support that they need to keep improving year on year.”

EIHL head of referees, Simon Kirkham, added: “This is a great opportunity for officials to referee in different leagues and exchange ideas and knowledge.”