Patrick Watling makes his first visit to Great Britain as he joins the Steelers for the 2023-24 season.

Watling will combine his playing season with studies at Sheffield Hallam University where he will complete his MBA programme at the Business school.

The 29 year old 6’ centre hails from Sault Ste. Marie in Ontario and played his junior hockey in his home province for Guelph Storm

Immediately after turning professional in 2014 Watling split his first season between Toronto Marlies (AHL) and Orlando Solar Storm (ECHL). Patrick spent a further two seasons in Orlando before  heading to the University of New Brunswich where he scored over a point a game in the 19-20 season.

Back to the ECHL in 20-21 for two seasons with Wheeling Nailers where his numbers continued to impress scoring 113 points in 117 league and play off games including 49 goals.

Europe beckoned for the skilled centre as he headed last season to Slovakia playing for both HC Kosice and HC Banska Bystrica scoring 30 points in 34 games.

“I believe Patrick will be a major cog in our wheel” said head coach Aaron Fox “His numbers have been impressive wherever he has played

“Whilst his offensive talent is there for all to see I also like the fact that he plays a 200 foot game and is defensively responsible with a very high hockey IQ”