The pieces are coming together.
With the 2026/27 season fast approaching, the Steeldogs have already started building a strong core for the campaign ahead. Here’s a look at the players who have been announced so far as we continue shaping the squad for another big year on the ice.
#16 Emil Oksanen
Emil joined the Steeldogs last season after signing a huge three year deal, keeping him in orange until at least 2028. He made his mark early, with fans quickly recognising his style of play and the potential he brings to the team. Still developing his game, Emil continues to learn alongside experienced players such as Ben Morgan, Davey Phillips, Tim Smith and others within the squad. A player with a bright future ahead, Emil is definitely one to keep an eye on as he continues to develop.
#46 Bailey Yates
Bailey joined the Steeldogs back in December, signing an 18 month contract that will see him return for the 2026/2027 season. He made an immediate impression with his speed and skill, quickly becoming an exciting presence on the ice. Bailey also trained regularly with the Steelers, further developing his game and gaining valuable experience at a higher level. He will continue to skate with the Steelers throughout the 2026/2027 campaign as he looks to build on a strong start with the Steeldogs.
#32 Alex Oldale
Alex Oldale joined the Steeldogs last summer from the Manchester Storm, where he spent the previous couple of seasons continuing his development. His first season in orange proved challenging, with two long term injuries limiting him to just 21 appearances between the pipes. Despite that setback, Alex has remained focused and determined throughout his recovery. Oldale has now put pen to paper on a new three year contract, keeping him in Sheffield until 2029. Now fully focused on the season ahead, he’ll be looking to return to the ice and make an instant impact as he gets back to full fitness.
#8 Walker Sommer
Walker needs no introduction in Sheffield. A true fan favourite, he returns for his third season in orange. He has been a huge asset to the Steeldogs over the past two years, consistently making his presence felt and playing a key role within the team. His impact on and off the ice has made him a standout figure in Sheffield. Hungry to keep pushing forward, Walker is eager to continue his journey with the club and chase more silverware in Steeldogs colours.
#96 C.J. Garcia
CJ has quickly become a popular figure in Sheffield since joining from the Manchester Storm last summer. He made an instant impact, with the Canadian defenceman putting up impressive numbers and recording 54 points across all competitions. His offensive contribution from the blue line has made him a key part of the Steeldogs lineup. Last week, CJ put pen to paper on a huge two year deal, keeping him in Sheffield until at least 2028.
#91 Nathan Salem
The first new addition to the Steeldogs was announced earlier this week, with Nathan Salem returning to Sheffield. Nathan last iced for the Steeldogs back in 2021, and since then has gone on to play in Hull and Peterborough. After sitting out last season through injury, he’s eager to get back on the ice and make his mark once again. No stranger to Sheffield, Nathan knows what it means to play in front of the Steeldogs faithful and is set to quickly become a fan favourite as he begins his return in orange.
#10 Maks Maslak
The second new addition was announced on Tuesday, with Maks Maslak returning to England to continue his development. The 20 year old joins the Steeldogs from Slovakia U20 side HK Michalovce U20, bringing exciting potential and a strong foundation to build on. Maks has put pen to paper on a three year deal, keeping him in Sheffield until at least 2029. A young player with plenty of upside, Maks is certainly one to watch over the coming years as he continues to develop his game in orange.
