Sarich sticks around at Steelers

The 28-year-old defenceman, whose campaign has been hampered by injury, first signed for Steelers back in 2005 and was happy to sort his future out sooner rather than later.

"It's a little different signing at this time of the year, but I'm happy and settled," he said.

"There is also a question of unfinished business here. We had such a great couple of years winning three championships in the last two seasons that to end it with the year we have had wouldn't have been right.

"The team has had it's problems as I have with various injuries. Having spoken with Dave (Matsos) I know we are looking to bounce right back and challenge for a championship again next season."

Sarich is currently out injured having broken a bone in his foot playing against Belfast Giants earlier this year, although he is expected to be back in the line up before the end of season play-offs.

Steelers coach Dave Matsos said, while slightly surprised, he was more than happy to tie his talismanic defenceman up for another season.

He added: "When you have a player of his outstanding quality and versatility then you keep hold of him, and we are happy to have him back for a sixth season."

With Sarich initially being switched to a forward role at the start of th season, it's unclear what role Matsos has in store for the Canadian when preparations for the 2010-11 season begin.

The club are currently running a poll on their website calling for fans to vote on where they think Sarich should play. Go HERE to register your vote.

Steelers take on Nottingham Panthers on Wednesday night at the National Ice Centre looking to overturn a 4-2 deficit from the first leg of the Challenge Cup semi-final at Shefield Arena last week.

"We believe we can turn them over," added Matsos. "But even if we don't come away with the win, we'll make sure they realise they've been in a hockey game."

HULL STINGRAYS have snapped up 19-year-old British forward Ben Lowe until the end of the season.

Lowe has combined playing for Kingston Jets with practicing with Stingrays this season and has made six appearances for player-coach Sylvain Cloutier's side.