Ice hockey
Blaze signing targets success

MICHAEL Schutte has no doubt his new club Blaze will be back competing for silverware this season.

The 32-year-old Canadian joined Paul Thompson's squad last week having spent the majority of the last six years in Europe, winning championships in Germany and Italy, as well as helping EC Salzburg lift the Continental Cup.

Now Schutte believes he can claim further success with Blaze, who have not won anything since their 2010 Elite League win.

He said: "Thommo and I got into contact over the phone and I was very impressed in talking to him and when I asked other people about him he was described as 'a class act all the way'.

"After we talked I looked closer at our roster and saw the group of players we have coming.

"I think we will be competing for a championship this season with the talent we have and that was a big factor for me.

"I'm very excited to be coming to the Elite League. There are some very talented players in the league and every game is going to be a battle."

Schutte also revealed how he spoke with current Blaze stars Brad Leeb and Jerramie Domish, who he has played with previously in his career, before making the move to Coventry.

He added: "I did briefly play with Brad as I was only with the Marlies for a short time but he is a heck of a player and I look forward to being on the same team as him again.

"I also spoke with Jerramie Domish about the city and fans, of which he had nothing but great things to say.

"I have been in contact with him a few times here and there over the years.

"I'm looking forward to the opportunity to play and live in the UK."

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