Debut Caps for Oakford & Venus and 75 for Lyle

A special presentation took place before Great Britain Men’s game with Netherlands in the Olympic Pre-Qualifiers Group G in Cortina this afternoon.

Nottingham Panthers defenceman Sam Oakford was awarded his first cap, as was Coventry Blaze forward Ross Venus.

Meanwhile, Swindon Wildcats netminder Stevie Lyle was presented with a silver 75th cap for reaching the special milestone.

GB manager, Andy Buxton, said: “I would like to congratulate both Sam and Ross on the award of their first cap.

“It is very special to represent GB and there are very few that get to do it in their careers.

“I am so pleased for Stevie Lyle to reach his 75th cap.

“He is a man who loves playing for his country and it is fantastic he has reached this milestone.”

Oakford said: “It is an honour to play for GB and it was brilliant to receive my first cap. I am so looking forward to this tournament and it is set up to be an exciting few days.”

Venus added: “This is a special moment in my career to win my first international cap. I have played for GB at a junior level but this is something else.”

Lyle said: “I am very proud to have reached this milestone in GB appearances. We have a great set of players and it was so nice to share the presentation with guys I have known for years.”