ICE HOCKEY: THE No.17 jersey will be retired by the Coventry Blaze next month in tribute to club legend Russ Cowley.
Cowley’s number with be lifted to the roof of the Skydome and join other retired jersey numbers including 12 (Steve Chartrand), 25 (Adam Calder), 26 (Dan Carlson) and 55 (Stephen Cooper).
The British forward retired at the end of the 2016/17 Elite League season following 16 years with the club.
During that time, the 34-year-old played 920 games, recorded 452 points, won a British National League double, the Elite League three times in addition to the Play-offs twice, the Challenge Cup and the Knockout Cup – this included the Grand Slam in 2004/05.
Cowley ended his career by winning a gold medal with Team Great Britain, whom he appeared for over 60 times, in Belfast at the World Championships (Division 1B).
Blaze coach Danny Stewart.
Blaze coach Danny Stewart said: “Russ was the ultimate team guy.
“He played in every position and committed himself to the organisation. Playing is one thing but commitment is another, we see it less these days.
“He was a great team mate and a tough guy to play against.
“I’d describe him as an ‘energizer bunny’. I’m thrilled for him as he put in a lot of good work.”
Photo: Scott Wiggins.
