The Cardiff Fire are thrilled to announce that with their pathway partnership with the Cardiff Junior Devils, Joe Malfatti, Joe Brickell, Bodhi James and Lewis Halliwell have been chosen as part of the pathway programme.
The Fire and Junior Devils have always enjoyed a prosperous relationship, but with a more formal pathway established, the goal for both organisations is to prepare players ready for the transition into senior hockey.
Head Coach Elis Sheppard on the prospect announcement:
I am delighted that I can already look to the future with the announcement of these four prospects. The common consensus between the Cardiff Junior Devils and the Cardiff Fire is to ensure there is a natural progression pathway for the junior players.
I have had the pleasure of Joe Malfatti training with the team since he was 15 years old and it is clear he is an exciting prospect. He carries the puck well, isn’t afraid to battle in training and will give his all. He has slotted into the training set-up seamlessly.
Bodhi is an exciting D prospect, who is composed on the puck and can start a transition from defence to offence. He is keen to learn which makes him a coach's dream.
Joe Brickell is a physical presence on the blue line; he isn’t afraid of the battles will often put his body on the line. He is receptive to coaching and has a desire to improve.
Lewis has been a player on my radar for a while. He has great size and a fantastic shot. He can play a physical brand of hockey, and with guidance will become a force to be reckoned with.”
Junior Devils Under 19s Coach David Mooney said:
For the Under 19 Junior Devils players, development is the number one priority. Having these young players gain the opportunity at the Fire to absorb and work on vital skills and hockey lessons specific to senior hockey provides a great learning environment and raises their potential to another level.
I’m thrilled for them having their skills and more importantly hard work recognised.
We would like to wish #14 Joe, #46 Bodhi, #64 Lewis and #77 Joe a warm welcome to the Fire Family!
