Pete Russell insists he can’t wait to start ushering in a new era for Great Britain’s men’s ice hockey team after being named as the new head coach.
The team had been on the look out for a new coach following Doug Christiansen’s resignation after failing to lead the team to promotion to Division 1A at last year’s World Championships in Lithuania.
Ayr-born Russell comes into the new post with plenty of experience as Great Britain’s most successful junior coach, having won four gold, one silver and two bronze medals in 11 tournaments in charge of the Under-20s and Under-18s.
The 40-year-old has also had spells as head coach of English Premier League sides Swindon Wildcats and Slough Jets, although he admitted his most recent appointment would rank as his highest achievement.
“This is the proudest moment of my hockey career and I am so thrilled to be the new head coach,” said the former netminder.
“My passion for GB runs deep and now to be coach of the men's side is just fantastic.
"I know so many of the GB players having coached them in the junior sides in years gone by. I know how much they care and how much they love their country.
"Becoming head coach of GB Men has always been an ambition of mine and I now want to do Great Britain proud in my time in charge.
"This is a dream come true for me and I can't wait to get going. It's a new beginning for Great Britain Men and I will select my team - one to start a new era for GB.”
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