Twenty one not out

CARDIFF,U.K- Jason Stone will begin his 21st season as a pro hockey player this September. Incredibly it’s his 20th season at the Cardiff Devils, a time-span which has seen him make over 1000 appearances for his home-town club.

Stone, a 6 foot, 210lbs stay at home defenseman has also been awarded a testimonial for his commitment to the Devils for more than two decades.  Stone expressed his delight at being granted a testimonial; “It’s great to be able to have a testimonial year. Following the birth of my son last year this seems like the right time to enjoy a testimonial and I am looking forward to the events surrounding it and, of course, the game itself,” Stone said  Devils Head Coach Gerad Adams was also pleased with the clubs’ decision to grant Stone a testimonial; “I think a testimonial is an important part of what this club offers and, after over 20 years of commitment, it’s fitting that Stoney is the first player to receive a testimonial game in the ‘Next Generation’ era, Stoney has given a huge amount to the club and he always gives his all for the team,” Adams said  “He’s been a part of this club from juniors up through the Elite team. Playing 21 years pro-hockey is an incredible achievement. This is a great move from the club and a great way of saying thank you for Stoney’s service.” Stone will be looking to mark his testimonial season with a strong year on the ice, as part of a Devils team that a lot is expected of. The Devils have already announced the return of several key players including leading scorer Mike Prpich, and Captain Brad Voth. That, combined with the addition of quality players from around the league like home-town goaltender Stevie Lyle and defensemen Mark Richardson have fuelled those expectations. But, the type of players Gerad Adams has been talking to for next years’ team has been equally exciting to his returning players. It’s a factor Stone was keen to express in his statement on his return for another season. “G (Gerad Adams) has signed a group of key guys from last year and I know from talking to him he has big plans for the remaining slots and It should be an interesting summer for the fans. It’s good to be back for another season,”Stone said. Contact the author at Aled.Lloyd@prohockeynews.com