Team GB's new teen ice hockey captain Finn Bradon hopes to 'bring boys together' on world stage

Team GB's new teenage ice hockey captain says he hopes to "bring the boys together" for success on the world stage this week.

Finn Bradon, 19, was announced this week as Great Britain's U20s Captain - ahead of the World Championships currently being held in Zagreb, Croatia.

On Thursday (9 January), the player led his team to a 4-3 victory over China where he assisted two goals. Earlier in the tournament he captained defeats to Croatia and Lithuania.

Speaking to ITV Tyne Tees about securing the captaincy, he said: "[Being picked as captain] is really cool. It's nice to know that you're wanted as a leader and hopefully I bring the boys together on and off the ice and try and do something special."

Originally from Newton Aycliffe, Finn began his career at Billingham Stars when he was just five years old and had his first brush with international ice hockey with England at the age of 14.

He worked his way up through the age groups to the first team where he made his first appearance for the senior team in the 2021-22 National Ice Hockey League season.

Finn Bradon scores a goal in action with current club Leeds Knights last season

Despite his latest achievement, Finn has his sights set on joining the men's senior international team.

"They're in a pretty good spot, playing against the best teams in the world, so that would be really cool just to experience that and again do my part to hopefully make it a successful journey," he added.

Since leaving Billingham Stars, Finn has been playing for National Ice Hockey League champions Leeds Knights where he has made 33 appearances scoring 22 goals.

Leeds Knights head coach, Ryan Aldridge, told ITV Tyne Tees that the player has impressed since joining.

He said: “Finn came from our open trial my first summer here. He already had serious talent but he has grown into a massive part of our team.

"The captaincy comes as no surprise as he is a great young man with a mature head on his shoulders. And we can’t wait to have him back in our line up.”

Finn Bradon's former team congratulate him on X, formerly Twitter, earlier this week

Finn believes ice hockey in the North East is in a good position with "loads of opportunities".

"Every time I go back to Billingham there are loads of young kids on the ice, which is really good to see," he continued.

"I've done it, so there's no reason why other people can't do it. It's just hard.

"With hard work and dedication you can get there, that's what I still say to myself, try and try and see where you go."

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