Sheffield Steelkings have become the British Para Ice-Hockey play-off champions after their exquisite win on Sunday.
Their win over the Cardiff Huskies, down in the Welsh capital, makes it the second time in the club’s history they have secured this title.
Jake Oakley, player-coach and chairman of the South Yorkshire side, said: “I’m very proud. Cardiff have had our number for a couple of years now. They are a brilliant team, they’ve really got some strengths, some great players.
“I am incredibly proud that we pushed hard, and did everything we needed to do to get the win. It was great, great for the club.”
The game was poised at 1-1 at the end of the first period but it didn’t take long for the away side to take the lead.
Gary Farmer netted all three Steelkings goals as the Sheffield side came out 3-1 winners.
Steelkings finished second in the league and hope their successful season will help to grow the sport in the South Yorkshire region.
Mr Oakley said: “Ice hockey itself in this country is not a big sport, so we are the minority sport, underneath the minority sport but we are working hard to change that here at the Steelkings.
“Come down and support us… we’d love to see more people down at the rink and cheering us on.”’
PICTURE – Jake Oakley in action. Image courtesy of Barcud Photography.
Sheffield Steelkings beat Peterborough Phantoms 8-2 in the semi-final to earn their place in Cardiff.
They boast the youngest side in the British Para Ice Hockey Association. Formed in 2014, the club also has a development side for new players: ‘Sheffield Steel Stings’.
If you have a lower-body disability or impairment, contact the club if you are interested in trying para ice hockey. https://sheffieldsteelkings.com/
FEATURED IMAGE – The team down in Cardiff. Photo courtesy of Sue Peaker.