Head Coach Pete Russell leaves the Devils

Pete Russell is leaving the Cardiff Devils after two seasons as Head Coach.

Russell joined the Devils ahead of the 2023-24 season and led the Devils to a second place finish during his first season in charge. This season under Russell, the Devils finished 4^th in the league and made the Challenge Cup Final, losing to the Belfast Giants.  Most recently, he led the Devils to the Playoff Final, losing a heartbreaking game in double overtime to the Nottingham Panthers.

Russell led the Devils to their first European Championship in January 2025, winning the IIHF Continental Cup.Earlier this season, Russell signed a new contract for the 2025-26 season, but had an out-clause that allowed him to move on before the 30^th of April before the new contract kicked in.

“Pete is a great person and a great coach,” said Managing Director Todd Kelman. 

“We won a European Championship under his leadership and made two finals this season. 

“I want to thank Pete for everything he did for the team over the past two seasons and wish him well going forward.”