Sheffield Steelers have confirmed they have extended Zack Fitzgerald’s contract by a further two seasons.

Fitzgerald has been a hit on and off the ice with the Steelers since joining the club in the summer from Braehead Clan.

Head Coach Paul Thompson said: “I think this is a good day for the Steelers in the short, medium and long term. We have a player that everyone at the club from fans to ownership adore – a player who represents our club in the most professional and respected way possible.

“There is no better team guy, no better tough guy than he, add to that he is one hell of a good defenseman. He is not only rock solid and dependable, he makes great defensive plays and blocks shots.

“Fitzy buys into everything we are doing here and we are doing lots of new things. He is committed to the club, his teammates and most of all to winning. I’m delighted he will be a part of this group for at least the next two and a half seasons.”

Fitzgerald said he was delighted to sign on the dotted line: “I’ve been around a bunch of cities in my career and this is the best I have felt and the best I have been treated – why wouldn’t I want to stay and help create something really special here?

“I’m excited that Paul, Tony (Smith) and the whole organisation are happy with me and what I bring to the team. We have been treated so well – my wife and I feel like the King and Queen at times.

“It’s nice to know you are settled. We have family for the next two and a half years and that’s a good feeling. My wife and I are happy and looking forward to buying in long term to the Steelers.

“On the ice I love playing here – I feel I’m being used to my full potential as a player. We have a great team and great teammates.

“Off the ice who wouldn’t want to play here for this great club and these great fans? They turn out wherever we play, whichever event we turn up at. They support us and cheer us on come rain or shine!”

(Image permission: Al Goold Photo)