Tony Hand, one of the most renowned ice hockey players in Britain, is preparing for his final appearance in Sheffield. Known as ‘The Scottish Wayne Gretzky,’ Tony is widely regarded as the best British ice hockey player of all time. His exceptional career has earned him the prestigious title of ‘Sir’, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport.
A documentary chronicling Tony’s remarkable journey in ice hockey is set to be featured at the Sheffield DocFest, an international film and arts festival. Titled ‘The Other Side of Edinburgh’, the film delves into Tony’s humble upbringing in the Muirhouse area of Edinburgh, ultimately leading to his groundbreaking achievement as the first UK player to be drafted by a National Hockey League team, the Edmonton Oilers, in 1986.
Throughout his illustrious career, Tony played a crucial role in steering the Sheffield Steelers and Great Britain towards unprecedented success in the sport. His exceptional abilities on the ice, from precise passes to scoring from seemingly impossible angles, captivated fans and propelled his teams to victory.
In addition to his contributions to Sheffield, Tony also made a significant impact on the international stage as a forward for Great Britain and as a coach. His influence extended to various other teams including the Manchester Phoenix, Murrayfield Racers, Edinburgh Racers, Ayr Scottish Eagles, Dundee Stars, Edinburgh Capitals, and Belfast Giants.
In 2017, Tony was inducted into the IIHF Hall of Fame, and he holds the distinction of being the only hockey player to receive the MBE medal from the Queen for his outstanding services to the sport. His inspiring story has been brought to life in a feature documentary by American production company, Slater Brothers Entertainment, shedding light on the profound impact of Tony’s career beyond the realm of sports.
Grant Slater, the founder of Slater Brothers, expressed his admiration for Tony’s story, highlighting its significance in redefining success in both sports and life. He emphasised that Tony’s legacy extends far beyond the realm of hockey, making his story truly compelling and universal.
As anticipation grows for the documentary’s release, Tony remains optimistic about its impact, expressing his desire for the film to be well-received not only in the UK but also in North America. He hopes that the film will resonate with audiences on both sides of the Atlantic, serving as a testament to the enduring appeal of his story.
With his coaching role at Whitley Warriors and a rich history as the Steelers’ seventh top all-time points scorer, Tony Hand continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of ice hockey. As he prepares for what could be his final public appearance in Sheffield, the legacy of Britain’s ice hockey icon remains a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes and fans alike.