Coventry Blaze Ice Hockey team have signed Canadian forward Shea Guthrie.
An Ontario native like fellow new singing Mike McLean, he was a third round draft pick for New York Islanders in 2005, after spending four years with Clarkson University in the NCAA between 2005-2009. Last season he played in the ECHL with Utah Grizzlies and Florida Everblades.
Blaze Coach Paul Thompson said to the Blaze website: “Shea is going to be a big player for us.
“He had a back injury which ruled him out for most of last season so his stats don’t really show you what he is all about.
“But he has explosive speed, he is a smooth skater, he makes plays and he scores goals. Shea is going to play a big part for us.
“He was one of the quickest players in the ECHL and he is going to love the bigger rinks over here. I don’t think there are going to be any better skaters in the league than Shea and Jerramie Domish.
“Last year we relied heavily on Owen Fussey and Luke Fulghum for goals – this year I want all nine of my forwards to make a big contribution.
“Shea is another young, enthusiastic and hungry player which is what we needed more off in the line-up.
“I spoke to his coach in Utah and he was distraught to be losing Shea. I know how he feels because I have been there.
“I have done extensive research on Shea and I like what I have heard. He is going to be a very good player for us.”