Canadian defenceman Neal Martin has confirmed he will leave Elite League champions Coventry Blaze this summer.

The 32-year-old, who has helped Blaze lift three league championships, two Challenge Cups and one British Knockout Cup in four years with the club, will join Danish Elite side Aalborg at the start of next season.

He said: "For me personally, at this stage of my career, it was an opportunity I just couldn't pass up. It took my wife and I a very long time to make the decision as I know what I'm giving up in Coventry. In the end, though, I can only play hockey for so long and I didn't want to end my career asking myself what if.

"My time in Coventry is irreplaceable. I've enjoyed every minute of it. Everything we've created here over the last four years has laid the foundations for Coventry to be successful for many years to come."

Head coach Paul Thompson paid tribute to Martin and said: "I can't thank Neal enough for all that he's given to me and this organisation. I wish him all the best for the future and I'm very honoured to have worked with him for the last four years."

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