Steeler Anthony DeLuca staying positive and looking to the future after lockdown

No one knows when indoor sports like ice hockey will return.

On Monday, Sheffield City Trust, which runs entertainment and sports venues, made it clear that the Arena and other facilities would be mothballed while they await "a change in circumstances.”

Patience isn't something you'd associate with explosive hockey wingers like DeLuca.

But he is keeping upbeat.Asked how he'll put bread on his table if the pandemic continues to disrupt the sporting programme, he replied: "That’s the question no one really wants to think about at the moment.

"Ever since you are a little kid you dream about becoming a hockey player and for many it's only a dream.

"In my case, I am extremely lucky to have grown up in a very competitive hockey community with many who also play pro."It has pushed me to the player I have become today.

"With that being said, over your entire life you are told to think of things other than hockey because the chances that hockey ends up providing a life and job for you is very minimal.

"Those words made me want to prove people wrong. There's always ways to make money but for now we stay positive and wait."DeLuca knows he will be in good hands when he returns to South Yorkshire.

"With everything happening in the world I am more than happy to go back to a place I consider a second home."With it being my third season I am extremely comfortable heading back to Sheffield."With the year we were having and everything ending so shortly it made sense for me to go back and continue the team success."The furlough scheme operates until the end of October, but from next month employers must pay staff NI contributions and pensions.In September, the government contribution reduces from 80% to 70%. Employers must top up the extra 10%. The contribution drops to 60% at the start of October. From November, government assistance ends.So it is a double whammy for Sheffield City Trust who have pointed out "shows and large attendance events will not be possible in the short and medium term."