Ice hockey: Portwood hopes to be a big hit for Edinburgh Capitals
The 23-year-old has played four years’ college hockey in the United States for the University of Akaska-Anchorage, where he was coached by Neil’s former Murrayfield Racers team mate Dave Shyiak.
Neil said: “Jade is the type of player that most teams need to have in their line up.
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Hide Ad“He’s got good size, skates well for a big guy, drives the net, is good on the boards, and Dave Shiak says he’s the best hitter he’s ever coached.”
Portwood will add a physical dimension to the Capitals’ play; something that many supporters felt was missing last season when the club finished second from bottom in the ten-strong Elite League.
Portwood, who as well as lacing up for the Capitals will be studying for a Masters degree in Sports and Recreation Management at Edinburgh University, said: “I’m really excited about joining the team, I like to use my size to be physical, block shots, and take the puck to the net.
“As a player I have a burning desire to play, and most importantly, win.”