August 27, 2008

Sheffield's Secret Weapon

The following article featuring former Union standout Nathan Gillies appeared August 27 on the Sheffield Steelers' Web site.

The Sheffield Steelers have a secret weapon, or so coach David Matsos believes, it's new signee Nathan Gillies, a former Union standout.

"He is going to be our sleeper," says Matsos "I already like him, the guy arrives in Sheffield just before Saturdays game and just wants to get into his kit and play, there wasn't even a mention of him not skating out with his team mates.

"He must have been going through hell, but he showed us all that he wasn't going to duck out. I thought he showed us a lot on the ice as well, he was so competitive, didn't miss a chance to go into a corner first and also made some nice plays.

"I think because he is new to the league and we have so many established players he may go under the radar with some other teams, they may skate off after a game against us and say "who was that guy, where did he come from.

"He is an old school type play, he skates hard and never misses a chance to finish a hit, we also know that he can back it up as well, he won't be found asking if someone wish to dance with him.

"I played him on a couple of different lines just to see how he played with different guys. Its early to say but I think we will be able to use him in many different situations.

"I think he is a guy who will enjoy the small rinks and the contact he will get in the likes of Coventry and Cardiff, the physical play won't effect him at all. Mind you he also has some wheels as well so the Arena's won't frighten him, I think the big ice will suit him in Sheffield.

"I'm pleased with all of the new guys, (former Rensselaer standout Scott) Basiuk showed a lot of presence as well, he hit like a train against the Germans, he certainly ensure that they didn't skate with their heads down, we have certainly upgraded his position, these new guys have certainly improved our team, we're in a lot better position that we were this time last year."