Introduction
The Sheffield Steelers have announced the re-signings of messrs Daniel Ciampini and Mikko Juusola. During the 2023/2024 grand slam winning season, both Ciampini and Juusola played pivotal roles in the Steelers’ success through the season with both forwards scoring many points. Both of these players scored big goals across the season, but none got more important than power play goals in the 2024 Playoff Grand Final vs the Belfast Giants.
Daniel Ciampini - 3 years as a Steeler
Daniel Ciampini has signed a new contract to stay at the Steelers for a third season after back to back successful campaigns. During his time in the EIHL, Ciampini has scored 100 points in 105 league games. These are very impressive stats for the 33 year old who played on both special team units last season. Ciampini was widely regarded as one of the Steelers best penalty killers last season. This was seen with the Steelers impressive performance on the penalty kill during last campaign along with other returning forward Mark Simpson. Ciampini plays a very tough game, with the Canadian playing the met front role on the power play. Ciampini has always been known as a passionate player and one who is willing to do anything for the club. This was seen in the 2024 Playoff Final where he played 25 minutes and 32 seconds. During the third period of that Playoff final, Ciampini played every other shift with the Steelers being very short benched due to injuries to Marco Vallerand and Brett Neumann. During his first season in Sheffield, Ciampini was the Steelers top point scorer with his scoring dragging a mediocre Steelers side to 3rd in the standings.
Mikko Juusola - The Flying Finn
Mikko Juusola is back in Sheffield, and fans couldn’t be happier! During the 2023/2024 season, Juusola played a key role in the Steelers successes with his 45 league points in 54 games. Juusola was a must keep for the Steelers as his ability to play any line and fit in perfectly is a huge coaching bonus for Aaron Fox. During the season, the Steelers said ‘if you want to win, hire a Finn’. This shows how highly thought of Juusola is in Sheffield with his character and on ice ability being crucial in Grand Slam glory. The 26 year old from Finland plays the game at a very fast pace with his skating ability allowing the Steelers to enter the zone with ease. Juusola also scored the game winning goal just 17 minutes into the game. The Power play goal saw the Steelers take a 2-0 lead over the Giants to secure their playoff championship.
Conclusion
Aaron Fox will be looking to add EIHL experience and key skills to his 2024/2025 roster and Ciampini and Juusola will be key in this. Fox looked to lean upon these players many times last season and more of the same will be expected during the new campaign. By having crucial special teams abilities and good line chemistry, both of these players will be key in Sheffield’s push for the title again. Juusola will be vital in Fox’s power-play plans as he looks to secure a good special team unit to capitalise on the ice when required. Ciampini was a key player when it came to injury cover and he will be again whilst seeing regular ice time under Fox, he could be used to mentor the youngsters who are on two way contracts with the club. He will be vital on the penalty-kill unit too as he has great two way game and a great defensive read allowing him to win the puck back easily. These signings will bolster the Sheffield Steelers squad ahead of the 24/25 season and help them chase more glory.
Author of Article: Will Harris
Editor: Will Harris & Calan Yule
Proofread By: Calan Yule
© EIHL News Central
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