Today we will remember our team-mate and great friend Mike Hammond.
Mike died in a car accident in Shawnigan in Canada in July and is missed so much by all of us.
Great Britain take to the ice tonight against China in our opening game of the Olympic Qualifiers in Cardiff and a special MH21 logo – designed by his family – will be displayed on the back of our jerseys as a permanent reminder to Hammy.
Before face-off, a tribute video will be played on the jumbotron followed by a minute’s applause in the Vindico Arena.
Hammy was a cherished GB team-mate, loved by so many, and very much part of the Great Britain family.
The big stage was where Hammy excelled as his tally of goals in big matches shows. He scored the third goal as GB sealed the gold medal last year with a 5-3 victory over Italy in-front of over 6,000 supporters at the Motorpoint Arena.
A big-game player with a cheeky lovable smile on and off the ice, Hammy not only provided joy for his team-mates but supporters too.
He also had time for a photo, a conversation, or a chat about ice hockey. The outpouring of love from fans around the world showed just how much he cared about everyone.
Our thoughts remain with Mike’s friends and family. Rest in peace Hammy – we will never forget you.