GODDARD’S GREAT RETURN
The Solent Devils continue to build their brand new roster for the 2026/27 NIHL 1 season tonight with the announcement of their 17th player!
Joining the squad, the Solent Devils are excited to announce the addition of, Defenceman Kyle Goddard!
Goddard is no stranger to the Devils having iced for the team for periods between 2015 and 2018 and being the nephew of Devils Legend Andrew “Chunks” Goddard! Kyle was a key part of the Solent Devils team who won the NIHL 2 playoffs!
Goddard’s career has seen him play across NIHL 2 and NIHL 1 with teams such as the Solent Devils, Basingstoke Buffalo, Chelmsford Chieftains and Bracknell Hornets.
Goddard has even played a stint in Canada for the Coldwater Falcons! His last season of Ice Hockey was 2022-23 where he iced for the championship winning Guildford Pheonix in NIHL 2. In his stint, Goddard netted 8 points in 9 games as a defenceman! Away from the ice, Kyle Goddard regularly plays Roller Hockey and has not lost his step!
Now Kyle looks to return to the ice and NIHL 1 with a homecoming back to his local club, the Solent Devils!
Signing Interview:
After signing, we sat down with Kyle Goddard to discuss the season ahead,
What are your thoughts on returning to the Solent Devils for the 2026/27 season?
What made you choose the Solent Devils?
I’m looking forward to being back! After a very long break, i’m stepping into the role to show my Son (who plays for the Solent Junior Devils) that his Dad has still got it and playing to give him someone to look up to.
For Devils fans who do not know you, how would you describe your style of play?
I always want to get stuck in and show up for the team. Continuing to play in a competitive manner and striving to push the whole team onwards.
You’ve followed the team over the past few seasons now, what have you seen from the squad and what do you plan to bring to the lineup?
They’re a great group of players on and off the ice to play alongside. As long as the energy and drive is there from everyone, then we’ve done our job.
You’re no stranger to the compete level of this league being apart of it throughout your career and also playing for the top teams in NIHL2. After taking a short break from the ice, what adjustments have you made to prepare for the challenge ahead
I’m mainly trying to convince my body that i’m still able to give it everything! Getting back on the ice and sharpening everything up. I know it’s going to hurt for a while, but I’m looking forward to it!
Finally, What is your message to the Solent Devils fans?
I’m back, I’m excited and I’m ready to work!
In addition, after locking in his 17th player, we sat down with Head Coach Alex Murray, to gather his thoughts on his latest addition:
Speaking to how this signing came around,
Kyle is someone I have known for a long time and continue to play other forms of hockey with him since he stopped ice a few years ago.
Following a positive summer for Kyle where he was impressive in our skates in June / July, we spoke about the team and I was pleased when he wanted to come back to ice!
He concluded by discussing what Kyle will bring to the Solent Devils lineup:
Kyle has a tremendous shot, which will be a useful tool in our rink. He has good hockey pedigree and a good hockey IQ. Kyles experience will help, he can play in a variety of positions and will give us the depth we need to ensure we have a successful season!
Kyle Goddard will wear #4 for the Solent Devils. Kyle is looking for a player sponsorship! If you are interested, please get in touch at devilssupporters@outlook.com
Keep In The Loop!
Make sure to follow the Solent Devils on their social media pages to stay up to date with the latest news and signings!
