The DSM Sheffield Steeldogs can confirm that forward Harry Illingworth and defenceman Albie Phillips will make their debuts for the club in tonight’s game against the Romford Raiders at Ice Sheffield.
Both players have worked hard in training to earn their opportunity, and tonight marks an important moment as they step up and get their first taste of action in a Steeldogs shirt.
Giving young players the chance to progress is important to the Steeldogs, and the debuts of Illingworth and Phillips demonstrate the value of having a pathway into the team. Both have earned their opportunity, and tonight gives them the chance to gain valuable senior experience and show what they can bring to the side.
Steeldogs Head Coach Slava Koulikov is pleased to see the pair rewarded for their efforts and hopes tonight will be the start of more appearances for both players.
“I’m really pleased to see Harry and Albie make their Steeldogs debuts. They’ve both been working hard in training, and this is a great opportunity for them to step up and gain valuable experience. We’re proud to give young players the opportunity to develop, and I’m looking forward to seeing them take this next step in their hockey journey. Hopefully, it’s the first of many appearances for both of them in a Steeldogs shirt.”
For Albie Phillips, the opportunity to make his senior debut is one he is looking forward to, although he admits there will be some nerves ahead of stepping onto the ice.
“I’m really looking forward to making my senior debut for the Steeldogs this weekend. It’s a great opportunity and I’m very grateful to be given the chance. There’s definitely a few nerves, but mostly I’m just excited to get out there, learn from the guys and do my best for the team. I’m looking forward to the experience and hopefully enjoying the weekend.”
Harry Illingworth is equally keen to make the most of his opportunity, having worked towards the chance to step up and represent the Steeldogs.
“Really looking forward to this great opportunity, it’s something I’ve been working towards for a while and I’m really thankful to Slava for giving me a chance.”
Steeldogs General Manager Jamie McIlroy has long believed in giving young British players a genuine chance to make the step up and is delighted to see Illingworth and Phillips get that opportunity.
“Tonight’s a big night for Albie and Harry. I’ve always felt strongly that we need to give young British players a proper chance. A pathway only means something if players get the opportunity to step up, and I’m pleased we can give them that.
“They’ve both worked hard to get here and they’ve earned their chance. It’ll be a new level and a big occasion, but the main thing is they go out, play their game and enjoy it. They’ll learn from the experience, and I’m looking forward to seeing what they bring to the team.
“There’s an obvious Sheffield connection with Albie, given what his dad Jonathan has meant to this club and City. But this is Albie’s moment. He’s earned the chance to make his own start with the Steeldogs, and I’m delighted for both of them.”
Phillips also has a family connection to the club, with his father Jonathan having played an important role in the history of the Steeldogs and hockey in Sheffield. However, this is an opportunity for Albie to begin his own journey with the club and make his mark in his own right.
For both Illingworth and Phillips, the focus now turns to the ice. Their debuts represent an important step in their hockey careers, and both will be looking to make the most of the opportunity as they take to the ice in front of the Steeldogs faithful.
The DSM Sheffield Steeldogs face the Romford Raiders tonight, Saturday 17th October, at Ice Sheffield. Face-off is at 7pm. Come down and get behind the Dogs as Harry and Albie make their first appearances for the club.