NIHL News - 2013/2014 - The Forwards

The Cardiff NIHL Devils are delighted to be able to announce the return of the core of last season forwards. First up is Ricky Deacon, Ricky has been a key player for the Devils for many years coming though the junior system, Ricky has also represented England at junior level, he had one of his best season s last year playing on the Devils top line and will take up the role of assistant captain once again. Speedy agitator Jordon Powell also makes his return to the line up along with Josh Haslam, Slovak import Robert Sedlak, tough no nonsense player Ross Wilkinson and London born Louis Lockwood. Returning on a part time basis will be Alan Armour and David Sadler.

Head coach Mark Cuddihy had this to say on the returning players.

"It's great to be able to bring so many of our regular core back for another season. Since Deacs has been assistant Captain he has thrived under the responsibility and improved his performances on the ice, he had his best year under myself last season and I'll be looking to him to add leadership on and off the ice this season. In Jordon we have a player that I would detest to play against and most teams do, he's very in your face has great speed and improves year on year. Bobby (Robert Sedlak) brings something different to our line up, he plays such a disciplined game and is often a big player for us in the bigger games. Josh is a young player that needs to have a break-out season, we will be looking for his best season from him if he's going to move up and play pro as I know he wants to, he's worked very hard this summer. In Ross Wilkinson we have somebody that will always stand up for his team mates, I've known Ross a long time and since moving up to division one he has continued to improve and I will be looking to give more playing time next season. Louis is a huge player for us, since joining us he has had nothing but bad luck with injuries and hes missed a lot of games and practice, if Louis can stay injury free he is a player that could force his way into the Elite League set up. With Arms and Sadler we have had to allow them to play part time roles for the team due to work comitments. We are not in the position of other teams financially and we have to allow our players to put work first. Both with play valuable parts to our season as and when available and needed by the team"

Louis Lockwood added

"After 2 seasons of injuries and not performing at my best and having an operation on my shoulder I am optimistic for my third term in a devils shirt, after being awarded the A I feel I did not do it justice so a summer of hard gym work and rehabilitation I am sure this season can be the one where I can show off my potential and repay a team that has been very patient with me.

We have a great team of guys and the past two years have been very enjoyable and both seasons we finished 5th so this year breaking into the 'big' four has to be our aim and I have no doubt that we can achieve that.

And lastly as my pre match songs seem to have run out of luck for me I am open to suggestions about new ones the only one that is safe is myley cyrus gotta love her!!!!"