Sheffield Steeldogs’ co-owner Ali Cree believes the changes being made to the structure of the sport in Britain will lead to a more “transparent” set-up.

The Steeldogs are one of seven EPL clubs integrated into the NIHL over the past two weekends and Cree thinks the move is a good one.

“The reduction of imports means good things for British-trained players and we hope that we can be a part of the high level of competition and parity that NIHL North had last year, whilst still providing a good standard of hockey that showcases even more Brits than before,” he told the club’s official website.

“I am pleased that any uncertainty has now been removed and that we have players who are passionate about ice hockey still in the game. It would have been a really sad state of affairs had many players retired or been left without a club.

“For the sport as a whole I think this will bring many big spending teams back to a respectable level and actually let the competition be much more transparent.

“The NIHL South and Scottish National League are also making some changes that will bring hockey across the UK onto the same page which has been much needed.”

With last season’s Player/Coach Greg Wood retiring from the game, Cree has confirmed that defender Ben Morgan has been appointed as his replacement.

Morgan has captained the club over the past two seasons and Cree thinks the 29-year-old is the ideal choice for the role.

“Ben is well known for his passionate, hard-working attitude on and off the ice and we know that he will continue that for the upcoming season with his coaching hat on,” added Cree.

“Ben has been working in the background whilst we awaited confirmation of our acceptance into the league speaking with players, new, past and present about the potential of joining our NIHL team.”