Liam Kirk

Liam Kirk accelerated his professional ice hockey career in 2016 by signing a three-year apprentice contract with the Sheffield Steelers. His exceptional talent culminated in 2018 when he was drafted 189th overall by the Arizona Coyotes in the NHL Entry Draft, marking him as the first English-born and trained player ever selected by an NHL team. This significant achievement followed a stellar junior career, notably in the 2015–16 season where, playing in the England U18 North League, Kirk achieved a league-leading 98 points, including 60 goals and 38 assists, leading his team to the U18 league title. Prior to this, Kirk’s prowess was consistently recognized through repeated selections for the Midlands Conference teams across various age groups, securing two EIHA Conference Tournament wins, six tournament all-star selections, and three MVP awards.

His international performance further distinguished him as a joint-top goalscorer at the 2021 IIHF World Championship, netting seven goals in seven matches, an achievement that also earned him a spot on the World Championship All-Star Team. Solidifying his strong presence in European hockey, Liam Kirk was announced in May 2024 as having signed a two-year contract with Eisbären Berlin of the Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL). Looking ahead, Kirk is slated to build on his momentum with the team, aiming for significant achievements including the DEL Champion title with Eisbären Berlin in 2025.