Cardiff Fire are delighted to announce that experienced goaltender and last year’s all-star goalie joins the Fire as head coach for the 2018/19 season.
Chris is no stranger to Cardiff having played in the city for the Cardiff Rage in the BNL during the 97/98 season.
Starting his senior hockey career in Guildford, Chris has had a successful career as an EPL stalwart goalie. Representing teams all over the country from Hull, Peterborough, Romford, Swindon, Haringey and Bracknell in the UK’s 2ndtier of hockey.
The past two season Chris has played in Slough for the jets winning the NIHL2 all-star goalie of the 2017/18 season.
Director of Hockey Mark Cuddihy continued “As soon as I knew Chris was available I called him. Chris has a ton of experience having played in the 2ndtier since he was a teenager. He’s played on some good teams and has gathered a lot of knowledge of the league over the years. He’s a qualified coach and when I listened to his plans and vision for the Fire I Knew it fitted in with what we are trying to do with the Hockey Club.
Last season was tough, and we need to build the club up to be better prepared for Division one hockey. I knew that I couldn’t continue coaching and run everything off-ice if we are to succeed. In Chris we have the perfect coach to take us forward while myself and Mark Smith will offer support and build for the future.
Chris isn’t done playing and his performances last season prove that by winning the all-star award. He’s totally committed to working hard with our other goalies and bringing them on to the next level. I’m delighted Chris has taken on this role”
Chris Douglas added “I am really looking forward to taking the role of Head Coach for Cardiff Fire for the upcoming season and working alongside the management team.
I had a few playing options this year but once Mark spoke to me in regards to coaching the team I felt that this was the right move for me moving forward in my career, Cardiff is where I started my senior career 21 years ago and I feel it is only fitting that this is where I start my coaching career.
All of the teams seem to have strengthened this year and with only 4 playoff spots it is going to be a tough season. However we have a great bunch of guys here in Cardiff with a good mix of experience and youth.
We will have a large squad this year with so all of the guys will have to show up to play week in week out home and away, and we will be working with the junior club all season long to ensure the path way is open for young guys who show the right skill and attitude to step up. I am also really looking forward to working with the young goalies we have in Cardiff and developing them to the next level”
Our Goal will be reaching the playoffs and with hard work from everyone there is no reason why we cant break the top four”
