Shudra Profile
Roster
News index

One of the best known names in British hockey will be patrolling the blue line for the Coventry Blaze in 2002-03. "Rocket" Ron Shudra has agreed terms with the Skydome based team and will bring 12 years experience of the British game with him to further solidify the defence.

The 6'2", 195lb Canadian is now 34 years old but still retains the awesome shot that earned him his nickname whilst playing for Sheffield Steelers. A native of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Shudra was drafted by Edmonton in 1986 and appeared 10 times for the Oilers in the NHL alongside the likes of Wayne Gretzky. After playing in the American and International Leagues, Ron came to Britain in 1990 to join the Solihull Barons.

The move that made his legend though came in 1991 when he became one of the original Steelers, a club he ended up staying with for eight seasons, and returned to again last year. Shudra has also been head coach of Hull Thunder and is renowned for his work with youngsters and sponsors off the ice (having been involved with the Steelers off-ice success story).

Coach Paul Thompson confirmed "Bringing Ron in will, without doubt, add the experiece we require on the blue line. Also, his versatility may play a major factor, as he can jump up on the wing if required.

Ron is as good as any player in the league on the puck, he will help improve our defensive to offensive transition with his first pass, and will also be a key on the powerplay.

"Ron scored 22 goals two seasons ago in the BNL and this is an area that I have tried to improve, by having a bigger offensive contribution from our defensemen."

Shudra is also happy to be coming to Coventry, "The opportunity to play on a great team, play for a great organisation, and a great coach, and have the chance to maybe win some silverware, was something I would have been mad to turn down.

"I am really looking forward to playing in Coventry this season. Thommo made it clear what he wants from me and I am looking forward to the challenge."