IF there is one player synonymous with Sheffield Steeldogs it is Ben Morgan.

At various times during his 14 seasons with the NIHL National outfit, he has been a player, player-coach, player-assistant coach, captain, vice-captain. It would be no surprise if he had also at times taken on the physio, even the kit man roles, such is his devotion to the cause.

But what he has been most needed for throughout that long association with the team is his ability as a defenceman.

After relinquishing his bench duties at the end of the 2024-25 season – Slave Koulikov coming in to take over as head coach – Morgan has enjoyed a more simple life with the Steeldogs, allowing him to show what has made him one of the most respected players in his position in the league.

STICKING AROUND: Sheffield Steeldogs' defenceman, Ben Morgan. Picture: Tony Johnson.

placeholder image — STICKING AROUND: Sheffield Steeldogs' defenceman, Ben Morgan. Picture: Tony Johnson.

Despite missing the first two months of last season through injury, Morgan was back in time to make his presence felt on the ice – aside from another short injury lay-off in January – before the Steeldogs went on to lift the NIHL National Cup from holders Leeds Knights in a thrilling final.

It comes as no surprise that Morgan has signed up for another season at Ice Sheffield.

"Ben approaches everything he does with incredible commitment,” said Steeldogs’ GM, Jamie McIlroy. “And that mindset is a huge part of what makes him such an important member of our organisation.

"As a former player-coach on more than one occasion, he understands exactly what this club means to everyone associated with the Steeldogs. He has lived and breathed this organisation for years and takes enormous pride in representing Sheffield every time he pulls on the jersey.”