Andrew Hotham has revealed he is leaving the Cardiff Devils after four hugely successful seasons.

The Ontario-born player won Defenceman of the Year every season he was with the Devils becoming a huge fans’ favourite.

Hotham confirmed the news via twitter, saying: “I am sad to announce that I will not be returning to Cardiff next season.

“I never thought I would have stayed as long as I did but I met so many incredible people that made it easy to stay in Cardiff for four years.

“I want to thanks all my team-mates throughout the four years that have made going to the rink fun.

“I don’t know what is next but I am looking forward to seeing what the future has in store for Ash, Marvin and I.

“Thank you everyone and good luck to the devils next season.”

Devils fans had been speculating if Hotham had played his last game and could now retire from playing after his emotional celebrations on the ice after the final game of the season.

Hotham joined the Devils for the start of the 2014-15 season when the new ownership group took over the club.

During his stay he won two Challenge Cup titles, three Erhardt Conferences, back to back EIHL League Titles and the 2018 Playoff Championship with the Devils.

Apart from his Devils Defenceman of the Year awards, the 31-year-old was also selected as the EIHL’s Player of the Year in 2016-17 and was a four-time First All-Star Team Selection.

Devils Managing Director Todd Kelman said: “You can’t replace a talent like Andrew Hotham.

“His skill-set and his compete level are as high as I have ever seen in this league.
“He has been a superstar for this club since the day he arrived and he played a huge role in our success over the last 4 years.

“It has been a pleasure having Hoth as a Devil and we thank him for everything he did for the Devils on and off the ice.

“We wish him and Ashley the best for their future and look forward to seeing what the next chapter brings for them.”