Sam Zajac believes Leeds Chiefs’ Joe Coulter has best years ahead of him

The 25-year-old Dumfries-born forward didn’t take any convincing when it came to the prospect of returning for a second season to Elland Road, much to player-coach Zajac’s delight.

“I was really happy with the full package he brought, not just on the ice but as one of the leaders in the dressing room, too,” said Zajac.

“He’s a big presence and a big personality - I’m delighted he’s coming back for another year.

“He embraced the challenge of leaving Solways Sharks for the first time and really grew into it all the longer the season went on.

“He’s a smart guy and is very adaptable - he took to life in Leeds like a duck to water and his performances, especially post-Christmas, were huge for us.”

Having risen to the challenge for his first taste of hockey south of the border, Zajac is convinced Coulter will continue to go from strength to strength.

“With that first year under his belt, it was the highest level that he’d played at week-in, week-out,” added Zajac. “He proved to himself and everyone else that he’s definitely capable of competing at this level and kicking on and improving even more.

“You forget that he is only 25, so he still has his best years ahead of him.”

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