Fife Flyers land GB international in trade deal with Sheffield Steelers
Fife Flyers have finally landed GB international forward Logan Neilson.
He joins the club from Sheffield Steelers several weeks after the Fife side made their initial move.
The player was at a stalemate with Steelers and looking to move on, but the club was not prepared to sign off without getting something in return - and to make the deal, Flyers have traded the EIHL rights of Edinburgh Capitals’ Joe Lynch to Sheffield.
Neilson is a big addition to Flyers’ roster, he lands at a time when former NHLer David Booth is preparing to join the team in mid-December.
A product of Nottingham Panthers junior development Neilson has links to the Kingdom. He said: “I always enjoyed going there and it was where I scored my first ever goal. It brings back good memories for me, especially with my mum and grandparents all living and growing up in Fife, it will be cool to spend some time with them. I can’t wait to get started.”
Max Birbraer, Flyers’ GM and president, welcomed the conclusion to the deal.
He added: “Logan comes from a hockey family with proven rich hockey DNA. Offensive upside to his game is something we are desperately in need.” Jamie Russell, head coach added: “We are excited to welcome Logan to the Flyers. He is a big man that brings offensive ability and a good shot. It’s a great opportunity for him and a very good fit for us.”
In 2017-18, Neilson headed across the pond during the 2017/18 season to further his development. During that time, Logan mainly played for tWest Coast Renegades averaging over a point per game. He completed his junior hockey between Corpus Christi IceRays in the North American Hockey League and Olds Grizzlys in the Alberta Junior Hockey League.
The 2023/24 season saw him return to Nottingham, joining Panthers for his first pro season where he picked up the EIHL Young British Player of the Year award, returning to be part of the 2024/25 season, play-off championship winning side. He played in 18 games with Steelers this season.
He has also represented Team GB at both senior and Under 20 level. In the 2021/22 season, he had a successful campaign ending the Division 2A tournament as top points and top goal scorer helping the team secure the bronze medal. He was also part of the Division 1A Senior Men’s team that secured the gold medal and promotion earlier this year.