Kalmikov pledges future to Hull

Kalmikov is looking for a successful season next time around

Ukrainian winger Konstantin Kalmikov has pledged his future to Hull Stingrays after signing a new contract.

The 30-year-old was the Rays third-top scorer last season and new player-coach Sylvain Cloutier said the news was a terrific boost for the club.

He told BBC Radio Humberside: "It was vital to retain his services. He will be the key to our success next season.

"From playing against him in the AHL [American Hockey League], I know how much of a competitor he is."

Kalmikov will join Cloutier and new signing Curtis Huppe on a potent first line for the Rays in next season's Elite League with the deal coming just days after Swedish netminder Tommy Sandahl moved to the Hull Arena.

From playing against him in the AHL, I know how much of a competitor he is - he will not accept losing

Sylvain Cloutier

Kalmikov, who was a third-round draft pick by Toronto Maple Leafs in 1996, proved to be a huge fans' favourite after joining Stingrays last October and notched 25 goals and 24 assists in 48 games.

He was also named the club's forward of the year.

The Stingrays player-coach said: "He is the most talented player in the Elite League and I am extremely happy to have him back.

"From playing against him in the AHL, I know how much of a competitor he is - he will not accept losing.

"He wants to have a successful season as much as I do. I think with the players we are all going to be surrounded by we will all have a great season together. He will be counted on as a leader on and off the ice."