Ice Hockey: Keefe extends Belfast Giants stay
Canadian is set for 10th straight season in charge
Last updated 2 hours ago
Adam Keefe will remain at the helm of the Belfast Giants for the 2026/27 season - marking his 10th consecutive campaign in charge of the side.
Since his appointment in 2017, Keefe has delivered an unprecedented period of sustained success, guiding the Giants to 11 major trophies - six Challenge Cups, four Elite League championships, and one Elite League Playoff title - and its first-ever domestic treble in the 2022/23 season.
Keefe’s record makes him the most decorated head coach the organisation has ever seen, establishing the Giants as one of the most dominant forces in the Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL).
Keefe, whose Giants team celebrated a fifth Elite League title in six seasons in March, said: "When I first stepped into the role, the goal was to build something that could compete year in, year out, and I think what we’ve achieved together over that time reflects the commitment and standards that exist right across the organisation.
"Winning 11 trophies is something I don’t take lightly, and it’s a credit to the players, staff, and fans who have driven this team forward.
"But we’re not interested in standing still," he added. "Every season brings a new challenge, and we know the expectations in Belfast are as high as anywhere else in the EIHL.
"Our focus is now on building a roster that can compete on all fronts again, pushing ourselves to improve, and make sure we’re in a position to challenge for more silverware. We’ll approach next season with the same hunger and work ethic that’s defined us, and we’re determined to give our fans a team they can be proud of."
Steve Thornton, Sports Director of The Odyssey Trust, has hailed the Canadian's impact: "To deliver 11 trophies and become the most successful Head Coach in the club’s history speaks volumes about his ability, his leadership, and his understanding of what it takes to succeed time and time again at this level.
"Beyond results, he has built a culture that demands consistency and accountability every single day.
"As we look ahead to next season, continuity is a key part of our strategy. Adam has repeatedly demonstrated his ability to evolve, to recruit effectively, and to keep the team competitive in what is an increasingly challenging league.
"We are confident that under his leadership, the Giants will continue to compete at the top of the EIHL and represent the organisation, and the city, with distinction."