Kalmikov is back for more

Standout Ukrainian forward, Konstantin Kalmikov, has been re-signed by coach Sylvain Cloutier for a second season in Excel Hull Stingrays colours after a superb first season at the Hull Arena.

The 30 year old from Kharkov, Ukraine, was signed to replace the enigmatic Jake Riddle in October last year and went on to become one of the most talented forwards to have played for the club, scoring 25 goals and 49 points in 48 appearances in the Elite League.

Having played against former Ukraine international Kalmikov earlier in his career, Cloutier was immediately interested in re-signing the tall, skillful winger:

"From playing against him in the AHL, I know how much of a competitor he is - he will not accept losing. He wants to have a successful season as much as I do," said Cloutier.

"He will be counted on as a leader on and off the ice."

Cloutier continued to speak about Kalmikov's immense talents:

"It was vital to retain his services. I feel he will be the key to our success next season. He is the most talented player in the Elite League and I am extremely happy to have him back."

A draft pick of the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1996, Kalmikov began his stint with the Stingrays with four assists in two games against the Basingstoke Bison, as he immediately linked up perfectly with line mate Matt Reynolds and that form remained for much of the season.

His name consistently featured on the score sheet after that opening weekend and not for misdemeanors either, with the Ukrainian picking up just two penalties in his 48 games for the club.

It was his force as an attacking presence and pinpoint finisher that won him forward of the year at the fans voted end of season awards dinner and cemented him as a fan favourite, mainly for his split second, flashes of brilliance that would frequently change a game.

He is, without doubt, one of the most skillful players to have iced for the Rays, and his shot, as former coach Rick Strachan described it, is "NHL calibre".

The disappointment of failing to qualify for the playoffs was evident in Kalmikov's body language following the defeat to Cardiff and subsequent final day defeat to Edinburgh, but it is that disappointment that will drive him on for a successful 2009/2010 season and Cloutier is adamant that 09/10 will be one of the best seasons for the Stingrays.

"I think with the players we are all going to be surrounded by we will all have a great season together," said Cloutier.

Kalmikov will line up with Lee Esders and Jeff Glowa as, thus far, the only returnees from last seasons squad, although Lee Mitchell and backup netminder Andrew Jaszczyk are also now expected to on the list of re-signings for Sylvain Cloutier's first season as coach in the EIHL.

The Stingrays have now signed up four of an expected six import forward lineup, with Andre Payette and Adam Knight rumoured to have sealed deals for the final two spots.

Photos Courtesy: Arthur Foster (FosterA@code.karoo.co.uk)