FORWARD Ross Venus says playing for Great Britain in Cortina has been an ‘amazing’ experience despite missing out on a place in the final qualifying stages for the Olympics.
Pete Russell’s side began the tournament with wins over Netherlands and Serbia, but they failed to make it through to the final qualifying stages after tasting a 6-2 defeat by hosts Italy on Sunday.
“It has been brilliant and an experience I will never forget,” said Venus.
“To represent your country is something to be very proud of, but in an Olympic tournament it is even more special.
“The amazing feeling to pull on the GB shirt is one I cherish and want to continue for a long time.”
Great Britain found themselves 4-0 down against Italy but Ashley Tait and David Clarke got them back to within two to give Pete Russell’s side some hope.
However the Italians responded by scoring to late goals to seal their place in Norway in a bid to book their place in the 2018 Winter Olympics.
Great Britain will next return to action with international challenge matches against Poland in Nottingham and Coventry, before embarking on their World Championship (Division 1B) campaign in mid-April.
Head coach, Pete Russell, added: “We gave it our best shot and I am proud of them. But we have be better and we have to be more disciplined.
“We can take a lot from the tournament and it has given us plenty to work on ahead of April’s World Championship in Croatia.
“We are a young side and I think we have a bright future.”
