Solway Sharks star makes Great Britain under-18 team

Solway Sharks’ Kyle Carruth has been selected to represent the GB U18 team in the IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship in Poland this month.

Carruth split this past season between the Solway Sharks of the NIHL and Widnes Wild of the NIHL1.

The 17-year-old forward dressed in 31 games for the Sharks in their inaugural season in the NIHL whilst playing in 19 games for Widnes Wild, posting 18 points. Kyle has played a big part in Solway’s junior development programme and has begun his journey at the senior level this season.

The tournament, running from April 17 to 23, will mark Carruth’s second World Championship selection with GB. Solway Sharks head coach, Martin Grubb, said: “We are all delighted for Kyle and it’s very much deserved. He is a talented player who has had a good season gaining valuable senior game experience and we all know he will do a fantastic job representing his country.”

Junior Sharks chairperson, Leanne Thomson, added: “Being invited to represent GB on the international stage is a huge honour, and an opportunity for players to showcase their talents. Kyle has worked hard to ensure he is as prepared as he can be, he should be very proud of himself.

“To have players involved at GB level from a relatively small club shows the elite level players in the local junior club can reach, courtesy of the player progression pathway. Kyle has progressed through our junior programme and call-ups for GB shows the opportunities available to our young, committed players. Everyone at the club is very proud of him and wish him and the GB team the best of luck.”