Unassuming defenceman Mathias Soderstrom picked up "Player of the Season" and "Players Player of the Season" for the "High and Mighty" Coventry Blaze at the end of the 2001-02 Season, and has now confirmed that he will return to the team for 2002-03.
The 25 year old Swede has been with the Blaze since the summer of 1999 and has become a fans favourite with his no-nonsense approach to the game. Soderstrom doesn't set the world alight with points totals, but brings a never-say-die attitude and always gives 110% for the cause. He is certainly a key element of Coach, Paul Thompsons' planning for the coming season :-
"Matty deserved his awards last season as he was without doubt our most consistent player. He has improved his game over the last three seasons and become a mainstay of our defence. I am delighted to have Matty back on the roster for the forthcoming season, as I know he is very happy to be wearing Blaze colour's again for the 4th consecutive season."
Also returning to the Blaze fold are one of the team's major sponsors, Exmedia, the International Exhibition Contractors based in the City. Managing Director, Peter Gibson, confirmed "Its fantastic once again to be involved with the Coventry Blaze. This is our 3rd year of sponsoring the team and as a local business we have benefitted from supporting and helping this fantastic sport, that is now in our city, grow!"
