Manchester Storm are proud to unveil the signing of defenceman Nicholas Welsh for the 2025–26 EIHL season.

The Canadian blueliner arrives in Manchester with an impressive résumé, having amassed significant professional experience across North America and Europe. Known for his puck-moving ability and offensive upside from the back end, Welsh is expected to play a key role on the Storm’s blue line this coming campaign.

Welsh developed through the QMJHL, making 329 appearances over five seasons and recording 181 points (36G, 145A) while playing for the Moncton Wildcats and Shawinigan Cataractes. He served as an alternate captain with Shawinigan during the 2016–17 season and captained  Moncton in his final junior year in 2017–18.

Following a brief stint with the AHL’s Rochester Americans, Welsh took his talents to Europe, where he established himself in several of the continent’s top leagues, including the DEL and Finland’s Liiga – two of the highest levels of competition in European hockey. Most recently, he featured in the ICEHL with HC Innsbruck before heading back to Liiga with KooKoo, where he continued to contribute offensively while logging big minutes in all situations.

Welsh’s experience in high-calibre leagues across Europe is seen as a significant asset for the Storm, with the club confident that his background will translate well to the EIHL and provide immediate impact. His ability to control the tempo of a game, particularly through transition and on the powerplay, makes him a valuable addition to the roster.

Now 28, Welsh is ready to bring his well-rounded game to the EIHL and is keen to make an immediate impact in a Storm jersey.

Head Coach Cam Critchlow commented:


“Nick is a player we’ve been tracking for some time. He’s a smooth-skating defenceman with great vision and the ability to control the tempo of a game. He’ll be a big part in our transition game and powerplay. We believe his experience across different leagues and his leadership qualities will make him a strong addition to our group.”

Words by: Callum Schora