ALEX Oldale’s first season back ‘home’ begins this weekend.
The ice hockey goaltender from Hoyland had previously been a professional at Manchester Storm where he made 13 top flight appearances in the Elite League.
But he moved to the Sheffield Steelers/Steeldogs on a two-way contract over the summer.
That means he is eligible to play for either side but will primarily be used by the second division Steeldogs whose base is iceSheffield.
The Steelers have high hopes the 20-year-old will progress to battle it out with US-born Matt Greenfield for the starting berth in the future.
Greenfield’s form last season saw him voted the top goalie in Europe’s leading competition.
Steeldogs general manager Jamie Mcllroy said of Oldale: “He’s spent the past few seasons away from Sheffield, in search of opportunities to develop his game.
“Now that we have the direct affiliation with the Steelers, we’re able to give him the scope to reach his full potential, whilst gaining valuable minutes with us to push him onto the next level.
“He’s shown that he’s more than capable of performing at Elite League level when called upon.
“That’s why we’ll be looking for him to come in and give us the best chance of winning, regardless of our opponents.
“I believe this will be a breakout season for Alex, and he’s hungry to come in and battle to establish himself as a go-to-guy.”
The Steeldogs have a double header against Leeds Knights this weekend to finish off their pre-season schedule.
The Knights have another former Barnsley pro in their coaching ranks in former GB international Davey Lawrence. The Steeldogs’ season begins on September 20 at home against Hull Seahawks.
