Ice Hockey: Lehman will return to Blaze

Coventry Blaze have received the good news ahead of the inaugural Elite League campaign that their netminder, Jody Lehman, has agreed to stay at the Skydome.

The Canadian scooped numerous awards last season during Blaze's Findus British National League and play-off double, including the FBNL player of the season.

Sheffield Steelers had been linked with a move for Lehman, who is now the ninth member of last year's squad to return.

The coach Paul Thompson said: "Netminding is a real key to success. It was fundamental in us winning two championships. Jody proved he is an exceptional netminder. This team was built around winners last year and you can see we are building a similar base this year."