It feels like the end of an era for Team Great Britain.
After years of success and a rapid climb into the upper echelons of international ice hockey, we’re starting to see more key figures from past triumphs retire—internationally, professionally, or both.
Evan Mosey and David Philips are the latest Team GB stalwarts to call time on their international careers, creating fresh opportunities for young talents to crack the roster – and also the risk of a tumultuous changing-of-the-guard on the blueline.
Evan Mosey announces international retirement
Mosey was a crucial piece of the puzzle throughout his eight-year career with the national team, contributing as a forward and defender.
The Illinois-born two-way player represented Team GB at three top-flight World Championship tournaments and bows out of the international arena with 24 points (six goals, 18 assists) in 42 appearances.
“It has been a privilege to play for Great Britain and to be involved in so many big moments in the national side’s history,” said the two-time World Championship gold medallist.
“The bond created on and off the ice can never be underestimated and I am proud to be part of such a special team. There are so many moments that we can all look back on with pride and it was such an honour to represent Great Britain.
“Playing in the top flight three times against the best teams in the world is obviously the highlight. I know I will miss playing for Team GB, but the time is right to stand down from the national side. Good luck to the boys in Romania. I will be watching closely and cheering them on.”
David Phillips steps down from Team Great Britain duties
Phillips departs the national team ranked third in all-time appearances (114), behind only Mark Richardson and Jonathan Phillips and tied with Matthew Myers.
The Hull-born defenceman debuted for Team GB as a teenager, registering three assists in five appearances at the 2006 Division 1A World Championship in Amiens, France.
David Phillips, Team GB (Image: IIHF)
Phillips featured in four top-flight tournaments and won seven medals (three gold, three silver, one bronze) as the squad advanced through the lower divisions.
“It has been an absolute honour to represent my country and it’s something that makes me very proud. I wanted to reach 100 caps and I was able to do this and more,” said the 37-year-old.
“The journey we went on to take Team GB to numerous years at the top level of international ice hockey is a remarkable story and that has been very special to be part of. Also, having my son watch me play for my country is something I’ll never forget.
“I am going to miss the unique GB locker room spirit. It’s a very special bond that has helped us spend so much time recently at the top level. The memories I have made with such an amazing group of guys will live with me forever.”
Analysis – Evan Mosey, David Phillips retire from Team Great Britain
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that Mosey and Phillips have decided to depart stage left from the international arena.
Phillips is 37, with nine points (three goals, six assists) in 26 National League appearances for his hometown Hull Seahawks this season.
David Phillips, Team GB (Image: IIHF)
He featured three times in Team GB’s unsuccessful bid to qualify for the Olympics, registering one assist and finishing the tournament minus-four.
Phillips retires as a legendary figure, with nothing left to prove – or much more to give.
Mosey has 37 points (eight goals, 29 assists) in 58 Elite League appearances this season, his age-36 campaign – his international retirement leaves a significant hole for Pete Russell to fill.
Evan Mosey, Cardiff Devils (Image: James Assinder)
“Evan has been an outstanding player for the national team and one I could rely on to play different roles,” explained Cardiff and Team GB head coach Russell.
“He brought so much to the team over his eight years and has been a crucial part of our big moments.
“Evan has been outstanding on and off the ice for us and I’d like to thank him for his time with Great Britain. We are going to miss him on and off the ice.”
Blueline Opportunities –
Mosey, who can play as a forward or defenceman, closed out his international career with several tournaments on the blueline.
Consequentially, Russell now has two defensive vacancies to fill – and at a crucial time, with the Division 1A World Championship just around the corner.
Candidates for the roles include youngsters like Archie and Joseph Hazeldine (who have both made steady progress recently) or seasoned professionals like David Clements.
Whatever direction Russell takes, a post-Mosey and -Phillips national team will take some serious adjusting to.
And, with a critical World Championship tournament just weeks away, time is of the essence for Team GB’s promotion-hunting squad.
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