Michael Danecko challenged to take game to 'the next level' at Sheffield Steeldogs
MICHAEL DANECKO has fully earned his spot on Sheffield Steeldogs roster for the 2026-27 NIHL National campaign - now he is being challenged to take his game to the next level.
Having spent a season up the M1 at Leeds Knights, Danecko returned to South Yorkshire last summer to surroundings he was already very familiar with having come through the Sheffield junior system and going on to make his second-tier debut with the Steeldogs in 2021.
The 22-year-old left-hander blossomed under head coach Slava Koulikov in 2025-26 and is expected to push on again.
“This is an important season in Mikey’s development,” said Steeldogs’ GM, Jamie McIlroy on a player who last season posted seven goals and seven assists in 64 league, Cup and play-off games.
“Slava and I have challenged him to keep pushing his game forward, and now it’s about taking that next step with greater consistency.
“The opportunity is there for him, and we’re looking forward to seeing him grasp it with both hands.
“He’s still only 22, he already has five years’ experience at this level, and we felt he made some really positive strides in his development last season.
"He’s developed into a player who isn’t afraid to play a hard-nosed game, competes every shift – but we also believe there’s another level for him to reach.”