Sheffield Steelers have added Guildford Flames forward Ryan Tait to their 2025/26 roster.
The 28-year-old American becomes their first external signing after recently announcing contract extensions for Robert Dowd, Kevin Tansey, Reece Kelly, Finnish duo Mikko Jussola and Joona Huttula, Dominic Cormier and Cole Shudra.
The Omaha Lancers and Green Bay Gamblers junior plyed his trade for Providence College in the NCAA, before moving to France in 2019 to link up with Cholet.
He made his professional debut in 2021 for Ligue Magnus side Cergy-Pontoise, where he featured 44 times before his move to the EIHL.
Tait has spent the previous three seasons in Surrey, posting 195 points in 204 appearances (79 goals and 116 assists).
On his move to the Steelers, Tait said: “I have had a great experience and wonderful time in Guildford, had fantastic team-mates and been treated super well, but after three years, it is time to move onto a new challenge.
“I was excited about the move, and the chance to play in Sheffield and in front of all of the fans at the arena. My talks with Aaron [Fox, head coach] were positive from the start.
“I’m looking forward to next August and meeting up with my new team-mates, many of who I have played against and a couple I know really well. Exciting times ahead, for sure.”
Steelers adding pace to forward line
The Steelers, who finished the 2024/25 campaign without any domestic silverware, will be hoping to utilise Tait’s attacking prowess in their search for success next season.
Their Challenge Cup defence fell to a Cardiff Devils victory in the semi-finals, before they were pipped to the Elite League title by Belfast Giants on the final day of the regular season.
Aaron Fox’s side then suffered a heartbreaking playoff semi-final defeat to Nottingham Panthers, who went on to clinch the playoff trophy after defeating Cardiff Devils in a double overtime thriller in the final.
“Ryan is a guy I have really liked since he came to the UK, and always has had our attention when game planning vs Guildford,” Steelers boss Fox said.
“He’s a guy that can absolutely fly. I think with how we play, he will really excel in our structure and give us some speed down the right side. He can play in all situations, and we have heard he’s a great team 1st guy as well.
“I think with him and Mikko, that probably gives us two of the three fastest players in the league. He should be an exciting player for us.”
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