Joey Haddad has committed to a fourth season with Cardiff Devils.
The power forward from Nova Scotia played a major role for Devils when they won three trophies last season and is returning to South Wales.
Fans favourite Haddad is a 6ft 2ins winger who goes into the dirty areas, protects the puck, drives into opponents, creates space and scores goals.
He has netted more than 50 goals for Devils and helped them lift the Elite League championship, Challenge Cup and Erhardt Conference title in 2016-17.
“Joey is a great person, a great guy,” says Devils head coach Andrew Lord. “He has huge passion for our organisation. He loves Cardiff, loves the people and loves the fan base.
“Joey is a leader who has a big role on the Devils team.”
Lord, Joey Martin and Mark Richardson are the other players who have already signed for next season, while the club are in talks with many returning and potential new signings.
Haddad’s points return for Devils over three seasons has been 120 (51 goals, 69 assists).
He captained Gwinnett Gladiators before coming to Cardiff, spending three years with the East Coast club.
Head coach Lord is recruiting a team aiming to compete in five competitions next season.
They will defend their League title and the Challenge Cup, while the end-of-season play-offs will be another major target.
Devils would love to finish top of their Conference table again, while the first challenge will be Champions Hockey League fixtures starting in July.
Lord’s men have been drawn in a four-team group with HC Davos (Switzerland), Bili Tygri Liberec (Czech Republic) and Vaxjo Lakers (Sweden).
Devils already have more than 1,200 season ticket holders for 2017/18 season. Anybody interested in becoming a season ticket holder can call us on 0800 0842 666 or email kw@cardiffdevils.com
Elite League rivals Dundee Stars have signed 22-year-old Jordan Cownie from Milton Keynes Lightning.
Dundee-born Cownie played junior hockey in the city and says: “Milton Keynes agreed to let me go despite being on a two-year deal. They were happy for me to play closer to home.
“I contacted Marc and we reached an agreement. I had a great three and a half years at MK and I’ve nothing but good things to say about my time there.”
Defenceman Zach Sullivan, 22, has committed to a fourth season playing for Braehead Clan.