Ice Hockey: Park backed to be a hit at Blaze

Buy photos» New Blaze signing Woo-Sang Park (s

03 November

Steve Carpenter

CANADIAN Dustin Wood is backing Woo-Sang Park to become a success at Coventry Blaze after being reunited with his former Asia League teammate.

The South Korea international joined the club on a one-month trial from Seoul on the recommendation of Wood.

The pair played alongside each other for two years for Anyang Halla and Wood believed his former team mate can shine but knows he will need help adjusting to life in Britain.

"Woo-Sang is a very skilled forward, a big body, who has scored lots of big goals," said Wood.

"He was one of the top skilled players in that league during the two years I was there and I am sure he was before that too.

"Hockey is second nature to players but Woo-Sang’s biggest challenge is how he adapts to a different country, a different culture. He is a good buddy of mine and I will help him with that.

"He wanted a change and was looking to go to North America or Europe and I thought it would be good for him to come here.

"The guys are fascinated by it and I am sure there will be a lot of exposure for him when he gets here. He is a good guy and likes to joke around. He is looking forward to it."

Head coach Paul Thompson said the 26-year-old would adapt to the different culture quickly and was confident the South Korean would become a permanent member of his squad.

"I am excited to have him with us and I am looking forward to seeing what he has got. Hopefully everything goes well during his month with us and we can have him for the rest of the season."