Sheffield Steelers legend Jonathan Phillips reveals secret of his longevity

Bob Westerdale
By Bob Westerdale
Published 14th Dec 2022, 10:31 BST
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Jonathan Phillips has revealed how the evolution of ice hockey into a faster-skating sport has suited his personal style - and may have helped him stay at the top of his game.

The Steelers' captain clocked up 1,000 performances in a Sheffield short last weekend.

It is a mind-blowing achievement, but one he takes in his stride...Phillips only ever seems to focus on the game ahead.

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The winger is one of several super-fast skaters in the current Steelers' side - Martin Latal, Brett Neumann and Evan Mosey are all speed kings.

And that style within the game generally has been good for him in recent times.

MORE: No holding back from Sheffield Steelers in Cardiff Devils Challenge Cup clash

In an interview with eurohockey.com Phillips was asked about how hockey had changed since he began playing.

"On the ice, it has obviously become a lot more about skill, skating and speed" he told Robert Newbolt.

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Sheffield Steelers veteran Jonathan PhillipsSheffield Steelers veteran Jonathan Phillips
Sheffield Steelers veteran Jonathan Phillips

"When I first signed as a professional it was a lot of big guys clutching and grabbing, now with the rule changes you can’t get away with that, and the game is based around speed.

"Off the ice has become a lot more professional as sports science has evolved.