BAILEY YATES believes he is flourishing as he continues to develop his game at Sheffield Steeldogs.

The Scottish-born forward returned from three seasons in North America when the opportunity to join the Steeldogs presented itself last December.

Part of the attraction for ending his time across the Atlantic was the offer being a two-way deal which would allow him to train with neighbouring Elite League team, Sheffield Steelers, for who the Steeldogs are an affiliate.

In 32 NIHL National league and play-off games, Yates had an impact last season, scoring five goals and four assists.

This season, the 18-year-old, has a goal and an assist to his name in eight appearances for the Steeldogs, but it is the learning process he is going through with both teams that is the chief focus.

“It's been really, really good,” said Lanarkshire-born Yates, who spent part of his UK junior career with Manchester Storm Academy.

“Obviously, it's a great opportunity for me as well as all the other two-ways, there’s so much experience all around us and I think, for me, I've learned so much, so quickly and I feel like it's a great spot for everybody.

“And training with the Steelers is such a great opportunity, obviously, you've got guys like Robert Dowd (Steelers’ captain) and a tonne of other guys like Ivan (Bjorkly-Nordstrom) that have already come through the system.

AIMING HIGH: Sheffield Steeldogs' forward, Bailey Yates. Picture: Conner Hammerton/Steeldogs Media.

placeholder image — AIMING HIGH: Sheffield Steeldogs' forward, Bailey Yates. Picture: Conner Hammerton/Steeldogs Media.

“I've loved it so far and I think I've come a long way because of that.

“Just being around those kinds of players, it really pushes you to get up to that level.”

The Steeldogs have enjoyed a solid start to their 2026-27 campaign, currently sat fifth with five wins from their eight games.

This weekend presents a tough test in the shape of a double-header against Romford Raiders, the only team to so far get the better of leaders Milton Keynes Lightning and sat two places above Slava Koulikov’s team in the standings.

“It's been a good start for us, the mood in the locker room is good - but it's still early and I think we're still building,” added Yates. “It’s another good team this weekend, back-to-back against Romford but I think we're ready - it’s going to be a good challenge for us.”