Nathan Ripley has been added to the Steelers squad – Sheffield Steelers

“Our boys are coming home,” Morgan says as Nathan Ripley returns to the Steeldogs on a two-way contract with the Steelers

Steeldogs head coach Ben Morgan was delighted to confirm Nathan Ripley as the latest addition to the Dogs squad ahead of the 2024-25 NIHL season.

Ripley, of course, is no stranger to Ice Sheffield coming through the academy before leaving to spend two years at the Ontario Hockey Academy from 2017-19.

Nathan then played 73 games for the Steeldogs from 2019-2021 before joining the Coventry Blaze two years ago, playing 106 games at Elite League level.

“Rips is a guy that myself and the club know very well,” Morgan said. “It’s a product of our prospect program that we ran when I was in the same player/coach role a few years ago

“Nathan is an example of players who started their hockey journey here in Sheffield and then moved on, we are determined to end that and keep the talent here, we are bringing our boys home.

“Seeing Nathan’s progression from junior to senior hockey and then making the jump to the elite league over the last two seasons is something we are very proud of, knowing that we have contributed to what is still an early stage of his career .

“We expect big things from the Rips this season. He’s a player who has excellent pace, isn’t afraid to get into foul areas and mix things up, but also someone who has a real eye for goal.”

Ripley has signed a two-way contract between the Steelers and the SteeldogsSteelers head coach Aaron Fox welcomed the deal with the Steeldigs saying: “It’s great to bring Nathan home to Sheffield on a two-way option.

“We feel that spending time in Coventry at elite league level and not playing a lot of minutes having the option to use him between both clubs is a great development option for him.

“I can’t wait to have him by my side.”

For Ripley, it’s a dream move to return to Sheffield

“I was delighted when Foxy approached me about a doubleheader with the Dogs and Steelers,” he said

“The Dogs gave me my first break and I’ve been a Steelers fan since I was little.

“Once a dog, always a dog. It was an opportunity I couldn’t refuse. I can’t wait for the upcoming season and training with the Steelers is a dream come true.

“It’s an honor to represent both teams and continue my journey in the sport I love.”