RON Shudra was today confirmed as Sheffield Scimitars' new player-coach - and immediately signalled that the end of his days on the ice are just one season away.
As predicted by The Star weeks ago, 'Rocket' takes over the helm from Neil Abel at the English Premier League outift.
Earlier this week, the club announced that chairman and benefactor Martin Birch is to stay on.
Now the 41-year-old Canadian defenceman cannot wait for the new season to start.
Shudra said: "We are negotiating with some of the four imports about a possible return and the British players who did so well for us last year.
"We need a little more consistency than we had last year, a campaign that was marred by injuries.
"But we have much reason for optimism now Martin has announced he is remaining in charge."
What do you think? Post your comment below.On a personal level, Shudra, who has played more than 1,000 games in 23 seasons of ice hockey in North America and the UK, said: "This has got to be my last season.
"I am getting older and it's time for the younger kids to be molded and out there playing."
The club reached the play-offs for the last three seasons and Shudra wants silverware at iceSheffield.
"The guys I am speaking to for next year's squad know what I am expecting," he said.
"I will be developing them so that they are ready to play at a higher level. We will be a tight outfit, difficult to beat,"
Club chairman Birch said: "Once Neil decided to step down as coach, there was really only one candidate.
"Ron has been an excellent captain since joining Scimitars from Steelers two seasons ago, leading his younger teammates by example.
"He has already demonstrated his coaching credentials when standing in for Neil."
READ MOREFootball headlines.Latest football gossip.All sport categories.The full article contains 328 words and appears in Sheffield Star newspaper.
