Sheffield ice hockey coach good enough for bigger leagues says Steeler

Steeler Davey Phillips believes his new coach at Sheffield Steeldogs would not be out of place in the rarefied atmosphere of the EIHL...or even above that level.
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Greg Wood has taken the reins of the NIHL team this season and is currently managing Steeler Phillips on his roster during the Spring Cup competition, backed by the Government during the Covid 19 lockdown.

Phillips played in the last two Steeldogs' games, home and away wins over Swindon Wildcats, and is prepared to lock horns against the Raiders of Romford, this coming weekend.

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Phillips had hoped to be playing for Steelers this season, but icing instead for the DCMS (Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport) approved Steeldogs has helped him in his aim of playing competitive hockey and getting match-fit.

And the style of coaching displayed by Wood, who has been at Steeldogs for a decade, has been a pleasant surprise to Phillips.

"He is really good, he knows his stuff and his relationship with the players is great," said the Hull-based 33-year-old.

"He has known most of them for a long time and you can tell straight away that they all believe in him and respect him.

Heads up: Davey Phillips playing for Steeldogs. Pic courtesy of Podium PrintsHeads up: Davey Phillips playing for Steeldogs. Pic courtesy of Podium Prints
Heads up: Davey Phillips playing for Steeldogs. Pic courtesy of Podium Prints
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"Tactics-wise and systems, he really knows the game and knows how to prepare for the team we will be playing against," said the Great Britain defenceman.

"He knows exactly what he wants us to do, systems-wise and he knows how to put it across really well and makes sure everybody understands it.

"He has a good relationship with everybody, you can tell everybody wants to do their absolute best for him."

So is Wood, 34, of EIHL quality in coaching terms?

Greg Wood. Pic by Bob WesterdaleGreg Wood. Pic by Bob Westerdale
Greg Wood. Pic by Bob Westerdale

"It is hard to compare, but he could be even better!," said Phillips.

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"He is a really good coach, he could easily coach in the EIHL if he wanted to, if not higher.

"He is really good at man-management in the way he speaks to people. Added to that, his knowledge of the game, well those are the two main things you ask from a coach really."

Overall, Phillips said there was a "real good team camaraderie" at iceSheffield.

"It can be a bit awkward for a player coming into a team that has been together so long but they have been really welcoming.

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"It is testament to how well they have been and understand the situation of new players coming; the best thing we can do is come in and be good team-mates and help them out as best as we can."

The blue liner said players viewed club video sessions on line, at home, to limit the time individuals spend together, during the pandemic.

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