Ice hockey: Portwood hopes to be a big hit for Edinburgh Capitals

Edinburgh Capitals’ 
co-owner Scott Neil has promised that latest ice hockey signing, 6ft 3in Canadian forward Jade Portwood, will be a big hit with fans.

The 23-year-old has played four years’ college hockey in the United States for the University of Akaska-Anchorage, where he was coached by Neil’s former Murrayfield Racers team mate Dave Shyiak.

Neil said: “Jade is the type of player that most teams need to have in their line up.

“He’s got good size, skates well for a big guy, drives the net, is good on the boards, 
and Dave Shiak says he’s the best hitter he’s ever coached.”

Portwood will add a 
physical dimension to the 
Capitals’ play; something that many supporters felt was 
missing last season when the club finished second from 
bottom in the ten-strong Elite League.

Portwood, who as well as lacing up for the Capitals will be studying for a Masters 
degree in Sports and Recreation 
Management at Edinburgh University, said: “I’m really 
excited about joining the team, I like to use my size to be physical, block shots, and take the puck to the net.

“As a player I have a burning desire to play, and most importantly, win.”