Former Cardiff Devils and Braehead Clan forward Ben Davies says the opportunity to try his luck in North America was one he simply couldn’t pass up.

After spending the last two seasons with the Clan, Davies signed a short-term deal with the EPL’s Swindon Wildcats while he waited for the Admirals’ training camp at the start of October.

He successful negotiated the two-week trial to earn a spot on the ECHL team’s roster.

“I’ve always wanted to give it a shot at playing my hockey overseas at some point and the opportunity came this summer,” said Davies.

“After looking at options I had, a friend of mine helped me get in contact with Norfolk and set up a try-out.

“I flew out after a stint in Swindon which I’m grateful to Aaron (Nell) for. All the Wildcats boys were so supportive of me.”

Davies endured a tough baptism in the ECHL as the Admirals lost their opening four games of the season, but a 2-0 victory in their fifth outing against Elmira Jackals ended that streak.

The 25-year-old’s move to the USA means he has missed out on a place in the Great Britain squad for the upcoming games against Norway, but Davies says he still harbours international ambitions.

“I’ve put a couple good performances together since coming here,” added Davies.

“I’m enjoying the hockey and the set-up here in Norfolk is very good, so I’m looking forward to what’s around the corner.

“In terms of the GB team anyone who knows me knows I’m so proud of representing my country and I’ve had contact with Pete (Russell) before and since coming out to the US and he’s aware of my situation.”

Davies is currently preparing for the Admirals’ double-header against Toledo Walleye later this week, but admits he’s had one eye on events in Cardiff where the Devils have been raising funds for former player Scott Matzka and his family.

“I’m gutted I couldn’t be around Cardiff this week to take part in the game,” he said.

“I think it’s great that guys have organised the event and brilliant that people far and wide have come together to help fight the terrible disease.

“Scott was a great role model of mine while we were playing and I’ll be keeping track of how the event goes.”

(Image permission: Al Goold Photo)