BELFAST GIANTS LEGEND COLIN SHIELDS MBE APPOINTED PERFORMANCE COACH

The Belfast Giants are proud to announce the appointment of Colin Shields MBE as the club’s new Performance Coach ahead of the 2026/27 season.

A Giants’ legend through and through, the Glasgow-born NHL draftee enjoyed a stellar 14-year career in teal, retiring as a multi-championship winner in 2019. On his way to amassing three Elite League titles, three Challenge Cups, an Elite League Playoff title, a Knockout Cup, and a host of individual accolades, the former club captain set the Belfast Giants record for the most goals (245), most assists (395), most total points (644), and most appearances (611) – the last of which was only surpassed by Mark Garside in 2024.

Steve Thornton, Sports Director at The Odyssey Trust, said: “Colin is a Giant in every sense of the word. His contributions to the club, on and off the ice, speak for themselves, so there’s no one better to be joining the team in a role that primarily focuses on shaping technical and performative excellence. Colin understands and embodies the standards and expectations that we set at this club day in, day out, so his addition to our backroom staff will no doubt benefit players and coaches alike. We’re excited for what’s ahead.”

After retiring from professional ice hockey, Shields founded Total Performance Fitness (TPF) – a specialist strength and conditioning facility based in Dundonald – providing expert coaching and personalised training for everyone from elite athletes to individuals looking to improve their health and fitness. TPF combined evidence-based training programmes, functional fitness, and tailored nutritional guidance in a supportive environment, helping clients of all ages and abilities achieve their performance and wellbeing goals. The facility also offers team training, personal coaching, and high-performance programmes designed to build strength, confidence, and long-term fitness.

Now, in his new role as Performance Coach, Shields will play a key role in preparing players to perform at their highest level throughout the season. Working closely with coaching and medical staff, Shields will oversee the team’s strength and conditioning programme, focusing on enhancing athletic performance, improving speed, strength, and endurance, reducing the risk of injury, and supporting players’ recovery.

Commenting on his appointment as Performance Coach, Colin Shields MBE, said: “I’m incredibly proud to join the Belfast Giants in this role. Having spent my playing career in professional sport, I understand the physical and mental demands that come with performing at the highest level, and I’m excited to use that experience to help the players maximise their potential. The Giants have built a culture of excellence over many years, and I’m looking forward to working alongside Adam [Keefe], the coaches, and the medical staff to ensure the team is prepared to compete at the highest standard every time they step onto the ice.”

The Belfast Giants return to action in a double-header of pre-season fixtures against the Herlev Eagles on Friday 28 and Sunday 30 August. Tickets are on sale now and available to purchase here.