Ex-Steeler Mike Ratchuk has said that he is still “full of guilt” after winning the playoffs with the Sheffield Steelers.
The American played his only season for the Steelers during the 2016-2017 season and went on to win silverware with the club.
The former Steeler quickly became a fans favourite during his short stint in Sheffield.
Ratchuk found the championship celebrations a strange feeling as he felt he could have done “much more” for the Steelers.
He said: “It’s a strange feeling to be in a championship celebration surrounded by teammates and coaches that you love”.
“and be full of guilt over knowing you could’ve done so much more.” Added Ratchuk.
Ratchuk racked up 21 points during the campaign but has said that he “didn’t give what everyone else did”.
He said: “I cheated the team that year by not been as good as I could’ve been, both on and off the ice.”
“I felt like I didn’t give what everyone else’s did, and still do.”
Ratchuk said he was “in love” with the Steelers and Sheffield.
He said: “I was head over heels in love with every part of that place.”
“My heart was very full in Sheffield.”
The former Steelers player said that he had never missed an organisation as much as the Steelers.
He said: “I’ve never missed a city, an arena or an organisation like I do the Sheffield Steelers.”
“Between the organisation and players, the fans and people you would meet every day in the street”,
“I don’t think anyone knows how much I would give, or give up, to have another shot at playing for the club again.” Ratchuk said.
Under is an infographic detailing the statistics of Mike Ratchuk’s time in Sheffield.
Sheffield Ice Hockey News 