SHEFFIELD, U.K. – The Sheffield Steelers announced their first new import today amidst rumours of a big culling of last year’s squad by Head Coach Ryan Finnerty.
Sheffield%27s rebuilding has begun early this year
James Jorgensen put pen to paper for the 2012-13 season after making the switch from fellow EIHL rivals the Braehead Clan.
Jorgensen, who will turn 27 over the summer spent two seasons in the CHL with Bossier-Shreveport before joining the Clan, where he led the defence in points. In 54 games with the Clan last season, Jorgensen chalked up an impressive 47 points (15+32).
The left shot American will be in familiar company next season having played alongside Steelers fan favourite Jeff Legue at Ferris State University in 2004. Jorgensen also has 70 ECHL games under his belt with Las Vegas, Gwinnett and Phoenix.
New addition James Jorgensen will add some depth on the blueline (image courtesy of Sheffield Steelers)
Sheffield Steelers Head Coach Ryan Finnerty spoke about his latest acquisition, “From the first time we played against Braehead last season, he became a target. I found him hard to play against defensively as did the rest of our team. He is smooth, good on the puck and takes no prisoners in front of goal. I’m excited to sign him, he is hungry to win and just the kind of player we needed to bring to this club,” Finnerty said.
Jorgensen also shared his new Coach’s optimism and heaped praise on his new club, “ Sheffield are a winning organisation and I want to win. Joining the Steelers gives me that opportunity. I love the tradition of the club, year after year they are right up there. There is an expectation to win and lift championships and as a player that’s what I wish to do,” Jorgensen admitted. “I spoke with Ryan Finnerty and loved how he spoke about the team he was putting together. I’m pleased that he wants me to be a part of that and I can’t wait to join up with him and the team next season,” Jorgensen added.
The team that Ryan Finnerty is putting together seems to be heading in the right direction. The acquisition of former Belfast Giants captain Colin Shields has strengthened the British contingent, which is key to a successful EIHL campaign. You only need to look at Robert Dowd and the Belfast Giants for further proof.
Several players from last year’s team have left the squad including netminder John DeCaro and forward Mike Ramsay, both of whom have signed with Norwegian outfit Sparta Sarpsborg.
Former fan favourite Colt King who was sacked by the club on the eve of the playoffs is rumoured to be signing for his former CHL side the Rapid City Rush.
It will be an interesting summer for the South Yorkshire side, who will be looking to put together a team worthy of challenging for EIHL honours next season.
Contact the author at Scott.antcliffe@prohockeynews.com
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