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Steelers Open 2025/26 Campaign Preview

 

Steelers Open 2025/26 Campaign with Back-to-Back Home Fixtures at the Utilita

The wait is over. The 2025/26 Elite Ice Hockey League season begins in earnest this weekend, and Sheffield Steelers waste no time getting into the thick of it. Back-to-back home games at the Utilita Arena see Aaron Fox’s men face the Dundee Stars on Saturday before welcoming the Glasgow Clan on Sunday.

While these are Sheffield’s first league fixtures of the campaign, they’re not coming in cold. The Steelers and their rivals have already had a handful of Challenge Cup games to sharpen up, while Glasgow bring the added confidence of a 3-2 league win over Manchester Storm on opening night.

After finishing last season three points behind Belfast Giants and ending trophyless, the message in Sheffield is clear: this year has to be different. The Steelers start the season with fire in their bellies and a point to prove.


Saturday vs Dundee Stars: Old Faces and New Threats

The opening night sees Sheffield go head-to-head with Dundee, a side led by a familiar face. Marc LeFebvre, once a Steeler himself, returns for his 5th season as Stars head coach. His knowledge of the Arena and its atmosphere adds intrigue, though his Dundee squad face a tough task against a Sheffield side determined to hit the ground running.

A key battle will be between Sheffield’s new playmaker Evan Jasper and Dundee’s towering forward Hampus Olsson. Jasper has settled quickly, picking up seven points (1 goal, 6 assists) in his early appearances. His sharp passing, elite skating and ability to create chances from the wing make him a constant danger.

Olsson, by contrast, is a more direct weapon. Already with eight points (4 goals, 4 assists), the 6ft 4in Swede uses his size and strength around the net to cause headaches for defences. If Dundee are to rattle Sheffield, Olsson’s power and net-front presence will be central to their hopes.


Sunday vs Glasgow Clan: A Familiar Face Returns

Barely 24 hours later, the Utilita will be rocking again as Glasgow Clan come to town. The game offers multiple storylines: the return of Brett Neumann, part of Sheffield’s treble-winning team in 2024, and the rare father-son subplot of Clan coach Corry Neilson going up against his own son, Logan, in orange.

The spotlight, however, will shine brightest on Tristin Langan. The Canadian forward has been electric in the early weeks, racking up 12 points (6 goals, 6 assists) across cup and league games. He has the vision and hands to turn tight contests on their head, and stopping him will be a priority for Sheffield.

For the Steelers, the key will be momentum. If Saturday sets the tone, Sunday becomes about carrying that intensity through. Jasper again will be expected to pull the strings, while captain Robert Dowd and Sheffield’s experienced core provide the heartbeat.


Mark Simpson’s Emotional Return

This weekend will also see a special guest welcomed back to the Utilita. Mark Simpson, part of Sheffield’s historic Grand Slam-winning side, announced his retirement this week after an injury-shortened spell with Grenoble in France.

Simpson’s career with the Steelers spanned 103 games across league, cup, play-offs and CHL, where he contributed 26 goals and 37 assists for 63 points. A versatile forward and popular figure in the dressing room, he returned to Sheffield last season after his role in the treble-winning campaign and quickly became a fans’ favourite.

The club confirmed Simpson will be in attendance this weekend, with the “Red Carpet” rolled out for his appearance. Fans will have the chance to thank him for his loyalty and service before he returns to North America.

For a fanbase eager to look forward, Simpson’s presence will provide a moment to look back — and to salute one of the cornerstones of the club’s modern successes.


A Season to Prove

For Aaron Fox and his players, this weekend isn’t just about opening fixtures — it’s about setting a standard. After falling short last season, finishing second behind Belfast, Sheffield know they will be judged by more than just wins. Every rival wants to topple the Steelers, and with the Giants still the benchmark, early consistency is crucial.

Opening at home gives Sheffield an immediate opportunity to build belief. With Dundee bringing an old friend back to the Arena, Glasgow offering both a reunion and a family rivalry, and a Grand Slam hero being honoured, the first weekend of the season has all the ingredients of high drama.

For the Orange Army, it’s the moment they’ve been waiting for. For the Steelers, it’s a chance to prove they’re ready to go one better.


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