Ice Hockey: McKenzie bids farewell to the Capitals

Rising Scottish ice hockey star Bari McKenzie has left the Edinburgh Capitals, opting instead to sign a one-year deal with last season’s Play-off runners up the Cardiff Devils, and the Dumfries-born forward admitted the deal was just too good to refuse.

McKenzie, who spent two years with the Edinburgh club, said: “I found out towards the end of last season that G’ (Devils player-coach Gerad Adams) was interested in me, and it was very exciting to be linked with such a great organisation.

“I obviously kept everything close to my chest as Edinburgh has been really good to me, and only started speaking with Cardiff over the last week or so. It was my intention to keep my options open over the summer, but when the offer came through it was just too good to refuse.”

I’m going to miss the team, the fans, and the city. Two years ago Scott (club owner Scott Neil) gave me a chance when nobody else would, and I really appreciate it and thank him for that.”

Last season McKenzie amassed over 50 points, including 19 goals and Scott Neil admitted he was sad to see him go. He said: “It would have been nice to have been able to keep Bari, he had a good year with us last season, but Richard’s confident he can find a player that will compliment us and develop, especially if they’re playing alongside Richard and Rene.”