Local hero Myers leaves Devils for fourth time
Matthew Myers is leaving Cardiff Devils for a fourth time following the appointment of Paul Thompson as head coach.Cardiff-born Myers returned to the Devils as an assistant coach in July 2024 having previously had three playing spells with the club.Niklas Hovivuori will join the Welsh team's coaching staff for 2025-26, having helped Thompson secure last season's Danish Championship with Odense.Myers, 40, first played for his hometown club in 2001. During a 23 year career he won 17 domestic titles with Cardiff and Nottingham Panthers.The former Great Britain defenceman played more than 1,100 Elite League games and 114 international matches before retiring in 2024 after a final season playing in France.He returned to the Devils to work with head coach Peter Russell who left his role in April despite having previously agreed a fresh contract for next season.The club confirmed the latest departure alongside news of Hovivuori's appointment."Matthew Myers will not be returning to the bench for the 25-26 season," the club said on their website."We wish him the best of luck with his coaching career going forward."
Born in Finland, Hovivuori has coaching experience in Norway with Comet Halden and in Sweden with Lions HC. The 48-year-old was also part of the Frolunda Coaching Academy, one of the best known ice hockey development programmes in Europe."Niklas is a calm and educated coach," said Thompson."We had a strong working relationship last season, so that continuity was important for me. I'm very pleased that he is joining me here in Cardiff after our success together in Odense."He has a high work ethic and understanding of his role. The players will enjoy his support and guidance. Niklas will be a strong asset to our hockey club."
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