Sheffield Steeldogs boost their British stable with addition of Maks Maslak
SHEFFIELD STEELDOGS today continued to boost their British options going forward by adding young forward Maks Maslak to their roster on a three-year deal.
The 20-year-old Polish-born winger has spent the past couple of years playing in the Slovak Under-20 league but believes a return to the UK - where he spent his junior career with Streatham - offers the best option for his development.
During his time in Slovakia with HK Michalovce, Maslak posted 22 goals and 19 assists across 89 games, while he has also represented GB at Under-18 and Under-20 level.
Steeldogs’ GM, Jamie McIlroy said Maslak had been on the organisation’s radar for some time.
“When you break down his pathway, there are a lot of indicators that point towards a player with a very high ceiling,” said McIlroy.
“He’s shown he can produce offensively, but more importantly, he’s done that while stepping into a tougher, more competitive league overseas.
“His progression (in Slovakia) aligns with the type of player we want to bring into this organisation, individuals who are not only talented, but who are committed to improving and testing themselves.
“Securing Maks on a three-year agreement is a real statement. It shows the direction we’re going in, as a club. We’re not just thinking about the short term, we’re investing in players who can grow with us and be part of something over a longer period of time.”
On his return to the UK with the Steeldogs, Maslak said: “It’s a good time to step up to the senior level after three years abroad.
“Given the Steeldogs program and recent success, I believe this is a great place and opportunity for me to continue my development.”