Munn looks for Steelers farewell

Whether it happens in today’s eagerly-anticipated semi-final showdown with bitter rivals Nottingham Panthers, or in tomorrow’s final against either the Belfast Giants or Cardiff Devils, the 32-year-old Canadian will be calling time on a hugely successful career.

And with Munn contemplating spending the next few weeks weighing up various employment opportunities outside of hockey near Augusta, Georgia, where he will soon settle with his family, the former AHL blue-liner is determined to sign off in the best way possible.

He has already won two play-off titles with the Steelers, one of those forming part of a memorable double in 2009, an achievement they are looking to repeat this weekend under player-coach Ben Simon after edging out Cardiff and Belfast to the regular season league title two weeks ago.

It was today’s opponents who were defeated 2-0 by the Steelers in that play-off final at the National Ice Centre two years ago, the victory sealed in part thanks to a rare goal from stay-at-home defenceman Munn, who would gladly forego any similar goalscoring heroics if it means a similar outcome for his team this weekend.

“I’ve had a great career in which I’ve managed to win a lot,” said Munn. “That’s pretty special, because it’s usually very difficult to win one thing in your career, but I’ve won a ton so I’ve got to be happy with that.

“I love this team, this city and my family have been very happy here. It’s going to be very emotional when I realise it’s my last game and winning another double would be the perfect way to finish my career.”

Munn, who returned to Sheffield last summer after a season with Japanese club Tohuku Free Blades, believes the Steelers are well-placed to clinch the play-off trophy ago simply because of the depth of experience in their locker room.

Nine of the double-winning team from 2008-09 will be present on the ice again today, something Munn feels will counter the greater skill and skating talent facing them on the Panthers’ roster.

“I think our chances of winning are pretty good,” he added. “Nottingham are probably the form team going into the weekend, but we’ve played well down there this season.

“On paper you’d probably say Nottingham are the better team but I like what we’ve got in our room - there’s tons of character and experience there and I’d rather have that any day.

“The fact we’ve got guys who’ve been in this situation before - in some cases twice - and been successful is only going to help.”