CARDIFF DEVILS AND BRISTOL PITBULLS EXTENED THEIR ALLIANCE

A FEARSOME PARTNERSHIP

The Cardiff Devils extended their partnership with Bristol Pitbulls of the NIHL going into the 2025/2026 season. Last season saw Bayley Harewood spend time with the Devils and also the Pitbulls on a two-way deal, with Harewood securing a contract with the Cardiff Devils for all his hard work and determination last season.

This renewed alliance demonstrates both teams' commitment to player development and strengthening regional ice hockey ties, offering more opportunities for emerging talent to gain experience at higher competitive levels. Fans from both cities will be watching with anticipation to see how this collaboration shapes the upcoming season and the careers of promising players like Harewood.

Looking ahead to the 2025/2026 season, goaltender Harry Thomas and forward Jacob Bryceland will embark on their own journeys under two-way deals, further strengthening the bridge between the Cardiff Devils and Bristol Pitbulls.

With Great Britain’s seasoned netminder Ben Bowns anchoring the crease for the Devils, Harry Thomas stands to benefit tremendously from the opportunity to train alongside such an accomplished athlete. Should time be shared on the practice ice, Thomas could absorb invaluable lessons—from technical refinements to the mental fortitude required at the top level—adding new skills and confidence to his repertoire.

For Bryceland, the flexibility of a two-way contract promises exposure to both NIHL and Elite League competition, a fertile ground for growth in a demanding environment. The partnership not only provides a platform for emerging players to challenge themselves, but also for regional hockey to flourish. As anticipation mounts, supporters from Cardiff and Bristol will be eager to witness how these young talents evolve and how the synergy between teams continues to shape the sport’s future in the region.

The Devils get their preseason underway this weekend. If you fancy a weekend in Cardiff or find yourself without plans on the 16th and 17th, head down to the Vindico Arena and catch the Cardiff Devils v Rapaces de Gap, of France. It's bound to be an epic matchup to drop the start of this years preseason.