ICE HOCKEY: COVENTRY Blaze coach Danny Stewart has fought off fierce competition to land the signature of Team GB international Luke Ferrara.
The 5′ 11″ right hand shooter has joined Blaze from Elite League rivals Sheffield, where he last month lifted the playoff championship.
With over 130 Elite League competition games to his name, Ferrara helped the Steelers to back-to-back Elite League Championship titles.
A proud moment for the Brit came last September in the Champions Hockey League – a competition in which he has made eight appearances, scoring short-handed in Sheffield’s victory over Austrian giants Red Bull Salzburg.
The winger made his senior Team Great Britain debut in exhibition games this April against Poland.
An associate captain at under-18 and 20s international level, Ferrara’s junior career was spent with his home-town club in Peterborough.
In near 300 games for the Phantoms EPL team, Ferrara registered almost 240 points – playing a crucial role in the team winning the playoff title in his final two-way season.
Head Coach Danny Stewart said: “We are thrilled to have Luke join us for next season.
“As we look to head in a new direction this season it was vital to add to our British contingent and getting Luke does that.
“Luke brings a lot of elements to our team.
“He is a smart player who competes night in, night out.
“He’s a good pro and comes to us in great shape.
“Luke will play a key role up front and at 23 is still getting better and I look forward to working with him this season.
“Another thing that attracted me to Luke was the experience that he has gained in Sheffield.
“He has won trophies and played in some huge games already in his career, and that experience is invaluable.”
Luke Ferrara said: “I’m really excited to be part of the Coventry Blaze organisation.
“I’ve only ever heard and seen good things.
“I know how tough it is to play against the Blaze in that rink and in front of the fans and I can’t wait to play for them now.
“I’m sure it will be a great season and I’m looking forward to contributing towards this team and being successful.”
