Marco Vallerand is Sheffield Steelers most 'explosive' player, fitness coach says

The 31-year-old leaves others trailing from a standing start - which explains why he is so often first to the puck near the opposition goal.

Vallerand receives the acknowledgement from the man who should know best: the team's strength and conditioning coach Danny Mawer.

"Vally" and veterans Jonathan Phillips and Aaron Johnson are the most naturally fit athletes he's ever worked with.

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Everyone connected with the EIHL club are desperately hoping those three and their team-mates will be able to take to the Arena ice in December or the new year.

That will depend on the Government allowing fans back, in numbers that will make it worth the clubs' while.

"Vally is the most explosive player I’ve had the opportunity to coach," said Mawer.

"This can be seen from testing in the gym to how he performs on the ice.

"He’s extremely strong and can produce high levels of force very quickly. He can take four hard strides from the goal-line and he’s already covered half of the ice."

While Vallerand can be likened to a sleek sports car, Mawer prefers a Rolls Royce analogy for Johnson.

"Aaron is 37 years old but is still as hungry and driven as a young professional.

"He comes to the rink prepared to put in the work.

"If he’s not on the ice he’s either on the bike or lifting weights in the gym.

"I’d describe him as a Rolls Royce, he has a very big and efficient engine."

Coach Aaron Fox recently described captain Phillips as looking like a machine, in the off-season.

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And Mawer wouldn't argue with that.

"Jona is very responsive to training, he keeps getting stronger and more explosive; he’s 38 years old.

"It's like coaching an 18-year-old.

"He only has one speed and that’s full speed, whether it’s a rep of a drill in practice or a shift during a game, his ability to repeat high intensity efforts is very impressive."

All the veterans in the club have extended their careers by their relentless commitment to fitness and nutrition.

"It’s the level of professionalism that they bring to the rink each day," said Mawer.

"Now we have the resources in the Arena, it makes it far easier for them to take care of their bodies. It allows them to lift before practice and before games to prime their bodies for playing hockey.

On a typical game day, they will come into the rink, where they will bike, foam roll, stretch and lift before pre-game skate. They can also get massages and any soft tissue work they may need doing after. Head home for a nap and pre-game meal.

"Then come back at game time and repeat the same process before the game. This can become very monotonous, but good pros take pride in the process."

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