GIVEN Ryan Tait never missed a game for Sheffield Steelers last season, it’s hard to imagine where else he could possibly be come the start of the 2026-27 Elite League campaign.

In all, the 30-year-old Californian-born winger played 70 games for the Steelers and, although the team didn’t win any silverware for their efforts, Tait won plenty of admirers among both the club and its followers.

Having contributed 50 points, including 14 goals, in his first season at the Utilita Arena, Steelers’ head coach Aaron Fox was understandably keen to keep hold of him for a second term.

“Taiter has a complete buy-in to how we want and need to play,” said Fox. “He's willing to play whatever role he's given on any given night and is a true team-first guy who brings an infectious, positive vibe to the dressing room every day.

BACK FOR MORE: Sheffield Steelers' Ryan Tait will return for a second season in 2026-27. Picture: Dean Woolley/Steelers Media

placeholder image — BACK FOR MORE: Sheffield Steelers' Ryan Tait will return for a second season in 2026-27. Picture: Dean Woolley/Steelers Media

“He was our second-top scorer from February 1st onwards and, from an expected goals standpoint, he and Jazzy (Evan Jasper) were tied for second behind Balmas.

“He probably left a lot on the table but he was also one of our first penalty killers over the boards, and that was a real strength for us last season.

“There are certain players you never have to worry about when it comes to effort and commitment, and Ryan is one of those guys. Those are the players you feel really good about bringing back.”

Tait returns in August as one of the Steelers most experienced players when it comes to the Elite League, having first come to Yorkshire following three years at Guildford Flames.

He quickly settled and relished the prospect of competing for silverware, even if it was ultimately to come up empty - something which provides a further motivation for his second year at the Steelers.

“I got a taste of Sheffield that I really liked,” said Tait. “I experienced the expectations that come with playing for the Steelers, the incredible rivalry games with Nottingham and Cardiff, and I want more of that.

“We've got an outstanding core of players returning that anyone would be happy to play alongside, and from what I've seen, we've also added some exciting new faces.”