It is with a truly heavy heart that we announce the retirement of defenceman Joe Llewellyn, Fire legend Chris "the doctor" Fox and club stalwart Tom Stevens following the conclusion of the 2025/26 season.
#9 Chris Fox
After seven incredible seasons and 149 games, ranking him 4th all-time in appearances for the club, Foxy is officially hanging up the skates. From his tireless work as a forward to his vital roles as an Alternate Captain and Player-Assistant Coach, Chris has been the backbone of the team through every high and low.
Everyone at the Fire would like to wish Chris all the best for what the future brings.
#67 Tom Stevens
After seven seasons, Tom hangs up his skates with 123 total appearances (96 for the 1st team and 27 for Fire 2), ranking him 6th overall in all-time club games.
Thank you Tom, for your unwavering loyalty and dedication to the badge, as a player, alternate captain and mentor. We wish him all the best.
Tom said:
This was a difficult choice to make as Cardiff Fire has been such a large piece of my life for so many years. The standard of NIHL1 has improved year in, year out, which is great to see; but unfortunately, the hands of time keep on turning - age catches up to you, and the recovery from injuries, aches, and pains slows right down!
I have so many fond memories from my time at Cardiff Fire. A personal high was getting to wear the 'A' for three consecutive seasons. This is an honour in itself, but it feels that bit more special when you know it’s your teammates who voted you in.
I am also very thankful for the great friends I have made throughout my time at Cardiff Fire, who I’m sure will be life-lasting. Now, who takes over the role of oldest player from Foxy?!
Thanks to the fans who have made playing in Cardiff such an enjoyable experience, and I wish the 2026/27 Cardiff Fire good luck!
#28 Joe Llewellyn
Joe is hanging up the skates after two seasons with the Fire. Since joining us, Joe has appeared in 49 games putting his body on the line every single shift. While we are sad to see him leave the ice, we couldn't be more excited for his next chapter!
Joe is heading to South Africa to attend the Balderstone Sports Institute where he will be pursuing a career in professional golf. We wish him the best in his new sporting profession.
Joe said:
As I hang up my skates, I just want to say thank you. To the coaches who believed in me and to the fans: your energy, your chants, and your unwavering support made every game unforgettable.
Wearing the Cardiff Fire jersey for my last two seasons was an honour I’ll carry with me forever. This may be the end of my time on the ice, but the memories and gratitude will last a lifetime. Thank you for everything.
Coach Shep said:
I’m very sorry to know that last season was Joe, Tom and Foxy’s final season. It wasn’t quite the send off they deserve, but I thank them for the effort and contribution.
Foxy wore his heart on his sleeve and played beyond his size. He wasn’t afraid to get into the dirty areas.
Tom was always mr reliable. A PK specialist. I will never forget his hat-trick game in Oxford a few years back.
Joe was a presence on the blue line. You could see opposition actively avoided him. He is going to be a hard spot to fill next season.
Each player are big parts of Cardiff Fire’s history and I’m grateful that I got to call them team mates and friends.
Thank you Foxy, Tom and Joe. You’ll always be part of the Fire Family.
Photos by James Assinder
