HOTHAM ANNOUNCES DEVILS DEPARTURE
Cardiff Devils defenceman Andrew Hotham has announced his departure from the club via social media.
The 31-year-old ends his four-year association with the Welsh side on the back of multiple success, including two league championships, two Challenge Cups and one in the Play-Offs.
And, in a statement on Twitter, Hotham admits he stayed on longer than he expected to after initially signing in 2014.
“I never thought I would have stayed as long as I have but I met so many incredible people that made it easy to stay in Cardiff for four years,” Hotham said.
“I want to thank all my teammates throughout the four years that have made going to the rink fun.
“I don’t know what is next but I am looking forward to seeing what the future has in store for Ash, Marvin, and I. Thank you everyone and good luck to the Devils next season.”
Hotham signed from German side Dusseldorfer EG in the DEL and quickly established himself as a fan favourite in what has been a real period of success for the Devils.
As well as his team honours, Hotham has been EIHL Defenceman of the Year in each of the last four seasons and won the EIHL Player of the Year award for 2016/17.
Devils' Managing Director Todd Kelman paid tribute to his departing D-man and says he’s been a huge part of the recent success.
He added: “You can't replace a talent like Andrew Hotham. His skill-set and his compete level are as high as I have ever seen in this league.
"He has been a superstar for this club since the day he arrived and he played a huge role in our success over the last four years.
"It has been a pleasure having ‘Hoth’ as a Devil and we thank him for everything he did for the Devils on and off the ice.
“We wish him and Ashley the best for their future and look forward to seeing what the next chapter brings for them.”
PHOTO: Cardiff Devils
