Sheffield Steeldogs' captain Lewis Bell a leader amongst leaders as he targets NIHL National Spring Cup silverware

LEWIS BELL admits he never expected to be captaining Elite League players for this season - but he’s just happy to have so many leaders in the Sheffield Steeldogs’ locker room for the NIHL National Spring Cup.
BACK IN THE GAME: Sheffield Steeldogs' captain Lewis Bell, in action against Swindon last Sunday at Ice Sheffield. Picture courtesy of Podium Prints/Steeldogs Media.BACK IN THE GAME: Sheffield Steeldogs' captain Lewis Bell, in action against Swindon last Sunday at Ice Sheffield. Picture courtesy of Podium Prints/Steeldogs Media.
BACK IN THE GAME: Sheffield Steeldogs' captain Lewis Bell, in action against Swindon last Sunday at Ice Sheffield. Picture courtesy of Podium Prints/Steeldogs Media.

The Steeldogs’ captain was forced out of November’s Streaming Series at an early stage due to a shoulder injury sustained in the first game.

But he returned to action with his team last weekend, when back-to-back games against Swindon Wildcats got the latest behind-closed-doors tournament up and running.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Greg Wood’s side enjoyed a bumper weekend after winning on both nights, helped in part by some late additions to the roster in the shape of Sheffield Steelers’ regulars Jonathan Phillips and Davey Phillips.

LEADERS' GROUP: Sheffield Steelers' and GB captain Jonathan Phillips, is one of a number of experienced players to have been added to the Sheffield Steeldogs' roster for the Spring Cup. Picture courtesy of Podium Prints/Steeldogs Media.LEADERS' GROUP: Sheffield Steelers' and GB captain Jonathan Phillips, is one of a number of experienced players to have been added to the Sheffield Steeldogs' roster for the Spring Cup. Picture courtesy of Podium Prints/Steeldogs Media.
LEADERS' GROUP: Sheffield Steelers' and GB captain Jonathan Phillips, is one of a number of experienced players to have been added to the Sheffield Steeldogs' roster for the Spring Cup. Picture courtesy of Podium Prints/Steeldogs Media.

Throw into the mix another GB international in the shape of NHL Draft pick Liam Kirk and it’s easy to see why many people fancy the Steeldogs to prevail come the end of the seven-week competition.

The EIHL contingent are on board to help them prepare for this year’s World Championships in Latvia, with existing Steeldogs’ players in the shape of Ben O’Connor and Ben Lake also expected to be involved with Pete Russell’s squad.

“It’s a strange feeling being captain this year,” admitted Bell, 29, now in his 11th season with the Steeldogs. “Who would have thought I would be leading Ben O’Connor, Jonathan Phillips, Davey Phillips, Jason Hewiit and Liam Kirk?

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“To be fair they listen to me as much as I listen to them, it’s good to have a lot of leaders in the room. There’s a good amount of respect there from everyone.

GOOD START: Greg Wood's Sheffield Steeldogs' team got off to a perfect start in the Spring Cup, winning both games against Swindon. Picture courtesy of Peter Best.GOOD START: Greg Wood's Sheffield Steeldogs' team got off to a perfect start in the Spring Cup, winning both games against Swindon. Picture courtesy of Peter Best.
GOOD START: Greg Wood's Sheffield Steeldogs' team got off to a perfect start in the Spring Cup, winning both games against Swindon. Picture courtesy of Peter Best.

“A lot of people have commented on the vibe around our club at the moment, but for me it’s one of the best locker rooms we’ve had, it’s beneficial having the experienced guys in the room.”

Bell admitted to a few nerves on his return to action after missing the bulk of the Streaming Series with his injury, but was relieved he soon got back into the swing of things.

"I was glad to get back on the ice after my shoulder injury, it was much better than I thought," he added. "You are always thinking ‘how’s it going to feel’ but I had confidence while I was out there.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"You have in mind your first game, first shift and there is the nervousness but I came out better than I expected. I now use my old head to listen to my body and rest where I can. I felt good back in the team."

Support The Yorkshire Post and become a subscriber today. Your subscription will help us to continue to bring quality news to the people of Yorkshire. In return, you’ll see fewer ads on site, get free access to our app and receive exclusive membiers-only offers. Click HERE to subscribe.

Pictures by Podium Prints

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.