The memory Sheffield Steeler Cole Shudra will 'cherish forever'

Shudra was awarded a two-year contract with Sheffield Steelers after a space opened up for a British player following the passing of his 20-year-old buddy.

Taking on that role comes with a responsibility far bigger than just playing ice hockey.

Shudra will be playing for his team, himself and to honour the memory of an exciting young prospect taken far too soon.

Steelers' coach Aaron Fox has already said that the 24-year-old will "play with a heavy heart" because of the manner in which he came to be handed the shirt.

Shudra acknowledges that he will have a sense of dignity and respect to demonstrate, saying: "I think I will carry that with me, I think it will give me the motivation to make Alex proud and do what he'd want me to do and that is to compete and play at my best all season.

"Obviously something like this is going to affect us all in different ways.

"I want to try and use it to motivate me and know that he is with me, helping me focus on playing the right way."

Shudra says it will be highly emotional for everyone connected to the club when they officially honour Graham prior to a game, probably a pre-season encounter versus Nottingham Panthers, at Sheffield Arena.

"It is obviously going to be a tough night for all those close to him and the fans who loved him so much.

"But it will be good to honour and remember him."

On the ice last season, Shudra and Graham were pitted against each other when Shudra's Leeds Knights locked horns with Graham's Sheffield Steeldogs.

"I think we played each other three or four times last season" said Shudra.

"We were first-line players in that league so we were matched against each other.

"They were always the best games to play; we knew we were going to have a good competition and push each other to be at our best.

"Playing against each other was the best thing, I will cherish memories like that for the rest of my life."

Off the ice, the couple liked to hang around each other.

"We spent a lot of time together" said Cole.

"When we were practising with Steelers I would pick him and we'd talk about the dream of us both playing together for Sheffield.

"I remember he was very excited when Steelers had signed him for a full season.

"As soon as he found out, he reached out to me and I was over the moon for him - he 100 per cent deserved that opportunity to play full time and it is very, very sad it won't happen."

Meanwhile, former Steelers' favourite Anthony DeLuca, who aspires to play for the Italian national team, has signed for south Tyrol side Gherdëina in the AlpsHL.