Kieran Brown keen to realise potential for Leeds Chiefs and himself after exit from Sheffield Steelers

He has had to wait 12 months before coming on board and, because of the COVID-19 lockdown social distancing restrictions, it may be a while longer yet before he can skate out in Leeds Chiefs’ colours.

But, once the 2020-21 NIHL National campaign does finally get underway, the 19-year-old forward is excited about the potential both for himself and Sam Zajac’s team.

READ MORE – Leeds Chiefs signal their intent for NIHL National by adding former Sheffield Steelers forward Kieran Brown

Having seen his request to be released by Elite League outfit Sheffield Steelers granted last week, Brown is confident his game can flourish in his new Elland Road surroundings.

The teenager admitted last week that the last 18 months of his three-year stay at Steelers had proved frustrating, with ice time at a premium in the UK top-flight. Any minutes he saw largely came through a two-way deal with neighbouring Sheffield Steeldogs, one of the Chiefs’ biggest rivals.

Before sustaining a hand injury in January that effectively ended his campaign, Brown prospered at Ice Sheffield, posting 34 points in 19 games, including 10 goals.

But Brown was determined to strike out on his own for next season and believes a berth on the Chiefs’ roster offers him the best chance to prosper.

“From day one when it was announced that Leeds were going to be having a team, I just wanted to play for them,” said Bradford-born Brown.

“I didn’t get the opportunities I would have liked with the Steelers but I want to continue to progress and the Chiefs gives me the kind of new challenge I want.”

Despite Leeds finishing bottom of the standings in their debut campaign, Brown is not expecting similar struggles next time out.

“Knowing the team that Sam is putting together here, I knew I wanted to be part of it,” added Brown. “With Sam Gospel, for instance, you know he’ll stand on his head every night, giving you a chance to win.

“I can’t wait to play alongside some of the players that are going to be here. We obviously want to be pushing hard, not just for the playoffs but for the top three or four. With some of the players we’ve got, I’m confident we can do that.”

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