Today's Episode features former NHL forward and SuperLeague star Ed Courtenay, whose career took him from the bright lights of the NHL to some of the biggest stages in UK ice hockey.
Born in Montreal, Ed's NHL journey began in unusual fashion when the Minnesota North Stars discovered him by chance during a junior game. Although he never iced for Minnesota, strong seasons in the IHL eventually led to his NHL debut with the San Jose Sharks. Over two seasons in San Jose, Ed scored 7 goals and added 13 assists, including his first NHL goal against his hometown Montreal Canadiens.
After several more seasons in North America's minor leagues, Ed crossed the Atlantic in 1997 to join the Sheffield Steelers. Impressed by the Sheffield Arena and its fanbase, he spent three seasons with the club, finishing as SuperLeague Player of the Season in his final year after leading the league in goals and points. Despite consistent cup success, league glory narrowly eluded the Steelers during his time there.
Ed then moved north to the Ayr Scottish Eagles, reuniting with close friend Tony Hand. His second season in Ayr proved memorable as the Eagles finished league runners-up and stunned the Belfast Giants 5–0 on their own ice to lift the Challenge Cup.
After a brief return to North America, Ed returned to the UK as player-coach of the Belfast Giants. In his first season he led the club to an Elite League Championship, aided by the signing of NHL star Theo Fleury. Further spells followed with the Newcastle Vipers and Manchester Phoenix before Ed retired at the end of the 2009–10 season.
Today, Ed lives with his family in Charleston, South Carolina — his legacy firmly secured on both sides of the Atlantic.
