David Longstaff. Photo by IceHockeyMedia.
The UK Ice Hockey Hall of Fame committee has announced the 2022 inductees as David Longstaff, Ernie Domenico and Martin C Harris.
The Hall of Fame has been part of UK ice hockey since 1948 and the selection committee recognises individuals each year who have rendered outstanding service to British ice hockey.
Hall of Fame committee member, Stewart Roberts, said: “Every year, it’s the pleasant duty of the selection committee to name players and personalities who have given outstanding service to our sport. “This year our committee chose David Longstaff, one of our most talented home-grown players who was capped over 100 times for GB.”
Longstaff was one of an elite group of highly sought-after British forwards. During a career spanning three decades, he played a then-record 101 times for Great Britain and turned out in over 1,000 games for several club sides.
He won numerous club and international honours and played a key role as his teams won four league titles (British League, Superleague, Elite League and English Premier League), three play-off championships and three cup competitions.
Longstaff said: “I’m thrilled to be included in the Hall of Fame with so many great people.
“Among my many proud and happy memories are being made Superleague’s Player of the Year and, of course, playing over 100 games for GB. I had a lot of great team-mates, too many to mention, and they all played a part in my career.”
Longstaff broke into senior hockey in 1989-90 at the age of 15 with Whitley Warriors and it was as a prodigal son and conquering hero that he returned to his roots for the 2015-16 campaign as player-coach. After five seasons in the National League North 1, at the age of 45, he reluctantly quit playing, but he remains with the team as head coach.
Congratulations Lobby!