Giants secure signing of Fleury

Theo Fleury has agreed to join the Belfast Giants

Belfast Giants coach Ed Courtenay has expressed delight at securing the services of NHL veteran Theo Fleury.

Fleury, who has played more than 1,000 matches in the NHL, was approached by Giants investor Jim Yaworski.

"This is the biggest ever signing for the Belfast Giants and indeed for the Elite League," said Courtenay.

Fleury has battled against alcoholism and drug abuse throughout his career but Giants officials are confident that his problems are behind him.

"Fleury is an international ice hockey legend and will bring a new dimension to the sport of ice hockey in Belfast," added the Giants coach.

Fleury has an Olympic gold medal from the last Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City and also won The Stanley Cup with Calgary Flames in 1989.

He has scored over 1,000 points in as many games in the NHL.

Courtenay says he is looking forward to coaching the Canadian, along with the other members of his growing squad.

"I know with the line-up that I have already signed, we will be strong opposition for all teams in this year's League.

"Theo will be the only current Olympic gold medallist in any sport to be playing and training in Northern Ireland."

"He is an outstandingly talented hockey player who just loves to play," added new investor Yaworski.

"I have asked him to come to Belfast to play for the Giants and become a hero in a new town."

Fleury will not be available until mid-October due to other commitments.