Ice Hockey: Hand returns to club roots in Edinburgh

Tony Hand, the former Great Britain international, is returning to his Edinburgh roots after agreeing to join the Capitals as player-coach.

Hand, 35, began at the club as a 13-year-old in 1982 before becoming the first British-trained player to be drafted in the National Hockey League when he was a 12th-round pick by Edmonton Oilers in 1986.

After 13 seasons in Edinburgh, he has since played for Sheffield Steelers, Ayr Scottish Eagles and Dundee Stars, where he spent the last two years as player-coach.

Hand, who made more than 50 appearances for Britain and has registered 3,568 points throughout his career, said: "Although I've spent eight years at other clubs, I always wanted to return to Edinburgh.

"Director Scott Neil has done a great job in rebuilding the club and he's putting a competitive squad together for this season.

"I had opportunities to join other clubs, but this decision was important for me and my family's future. I'm confident we can continue to take this club forward."