Experienced defenceman Phil Manny returns to the Cardiff Fire for the 2018/19 season and joins the management team as an assistant coach.
Phil began his career in Cardiff and played for the club at every level including the Elite League team.
Director of Hockey/General Manager Mark Cuddihy continued “I have worked on and off with Juan over the last 10 years, being a player in the same team as him and also coaching him. When I spoke to Phil about returning for this season he mentioned that he wanted to get into coaching, he told me how he wanted the team to play and it fits with the ethos that we have tried to install over the last 11 years.
Phil is completing his coaching qualifications this summer and I know he’s going to work hard developing his coaching. I’m delighted that Phil approached me about this role. I’m sure he’ll do very well”
Chris Douglass added “ I am really looking forward to working alongside Phil, Mark Smith and the rest of the management team. I have played alongside Manny previously and he is a great guy with a lot of experience in the game and I feel that between us we can help the Fire grow and improve in what will be a very competitive league”
Phil Manny “”I’m looking forward to playing and coaching in partnership with Dougie. I played with Chris for London Raiders and we have been speaking a lot over the last couple of months regarding our thoughts. I like gritty on the edge hockey and Dougie likes speed so will be a nice hybrid. Both of us believe in the same game systems and with the team being put together we are looking to push the big boys in the league and get back to where Cardiff Fire was in its first 2 seasons”
