Mac’s Tribute To ‘Gold Standard’ Devils Man Richie

Canadian Mac Faulkner is flying into the UK on a special mission.

The former Cardiff Devils captain will play a major role in Mark Richardson’s testimonial next week.

“Mark is the gold standard when it comes to setting a goal and seeing it through,” says Faulkner.”He is a class act professional through and through – constantly trying to get better.”

‘Faulks’ first met Richardson when he returned from Kazakhstan where he had been playing for Arlan Kokshetau during 2012-13.

Gerad Adams was player-coach and Faulkner said: “G informed the team that Mark would be coming back from Kazakstan to join us for the remainder of the season. Amazing news!

“I inquired about Mark, and G responded ‘Great teammate, great determination on the ice – skating is a chore but he’s working on it.’

“Once I had the opportunity to play along side Mark, I saw that determination everyday at practice.

“The truth of the matter is that right now I’m simply jealous of Mark. He is a class act, awesome hockey player and most importantly – an amazing husband and father.

“I wish him nothing but success in the years to come and am honoured to be a part of his testimonial.”

The night before next Tuesday’s testimonial match Devils will be hosting a dinner and draft party where the two team captains (Tyson Marsh for Team Black, Faulkner for Team White) will draft their players for the big game.

Max Birbraer, Stevie Lyle and Guillaume Doucet are among the former Devils players who have committed to play in Richardson’s testimonial on Tuesday, October 24 (7.30pm).

This season is Richie’s 11th season with Devils and he plays in Elite League matches against Sheffield Steelers away on Saturday and Nottingham Panthers at home the following evening before turning to his testimonial.

Players who have committed to play in Richardson’s game are Birbraer, Carl Hudson, Alex Symonds, Paul Sample, Sam Smith, Adams, Doucet, Denny Kearney, Ben Davies, Matt Towe, Kenton Smith, Mark Smith, Neil Francis, Stevie Lyle, Joe Myers, Jason Stone and Mike Will.

Tickets for Richardson’s game are on sale through the Devils online booking system. Visit the official Cardiff Devils website, call 0800 0842 666 or book in person at IAW reception.

More details are available from the arena shop just off the main reception area.

New Devils signing Tyson Strachan makes his debut this weekend, while he will also play in Richardson’s testimonial.

Cardiff are at home against Nottingham Panthers on Sunday and there are less than 300 tickets remaining.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK ONLINE for the clash with Panthers and Richardson’s testimonial.