Steady Rise: The Career of Sam Carrick
Sam Carrick’s journey from junior hockey in Ontario to the bright lights of Madison Square Garden is a story of persistence, resilience and steady growth. From the OHL to multiple NHL franchises, Carrick has built a career defined by hard work, consistency and adaptability at the highest level of professional hockey.
Credit: Richiekim at English Wikipedia
Sport is more than just a game to an athlete; it's a way of life. To become the best they can be, 100% commitment is required. Sam Carrick’s career is no different, from starting in Ontario to suiting up for the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden; he has had a prosperous career to date. Experiencing different NHL team cultures helps a player gain experience in the league. He has a great story to explore.
Carrick's foundations
Every athlete has to start somewhere, and for Carrick, it was the Markham Waxers. As his game grew in confidence and quality, so too did the attention. In the 2008 Ontario Hockey League draft, he was selected by the Brampton Battalion, a fitting reward for his rise. He instantly became a consistent presence on the roster. Carrick played 61 games in the 2008–09 season, tallying 21 points, 10 goals and 11 assists. That season, he helped Brampton reach the OHL final. The following season, his production increased significantly, as he played 66 games and contributed 42 points (21 goals and 21 assists). Throughout his time in the OHL, he was a scoring force, finishing his career with high numbers. In the 2011–12 season, Carrick recorded 67 points in 60 games, with 37 goals and 30 assists. In addition to his time in the OHL, Carrick also represented Canada at the under-17 and under-18 levels.
A standout season in the OHL opened the door to the next chapter of his career, as he signed his entry-level deal with the Toronto Maple Leafs. The moment carried extra meaning, having been drafted 144th overall by the franchise in 2010.
Toronto Maple Leafs
After signing his deal with Toronto, Carrick was assigned to the Idaho Steelheads of the East Coast Hockey League. He played 50 games for Idaho, contributing 37 points (16 goals, 21 assists). During the 2012–13 season, he also made his debut with the Toronto Marlies. The 2013–14 season saw Carrick compete in the American Hockey League full-time. He took to the AHL ice 62 times, contributing 35 points, 14 goals and 21 assists. The following season, Carrick got his first taste of NHL action, debuting for Toronto in November 2014. His first goal came shortly after, in March 2015. His time with Toronto was primarily spent in the AHL, with brief cameos in the NHL. His spell in Toronto left him with 174 AHL appearances and only 19 NHL appearances.
After leaving Toronto, he spent a season with the Rockford IceHogs before heading to Anaheim.
The Anaheim Ducks
A new path emerged in 2017 when he signed a two-year, two-way deal with Anaheim. With the San Diego Gulls, he became a steadfast presence, quickly establishing himself as a core player. His second season was when he truly made a difference, taking to the ice 67 times, scoring 41 points (13 goals, 28 assists). Most of his playing time was spent in San Diego during the 2018–19 season, yet he made brief cameos for the Anaheim Ducks, competing in the NHL six times that season.
The 2021–22 season was when he became a full-time NHL player. He suited up 64 times for Anaheim, tallying 19 points, 11 goals and eight assists. Carrick would go on to become a regular part of the Ducks' line-up. Over the next two seasons, he made more than 50 appearances before being traded to the Edmonton Oilers.
He spent only a brief time in Edmonton, making 16 appearances and contributing five points (two goals, three assists).
Carrick was looking for a new home for the 2024–25 season, and that is when Madison Square Garden came calling.
New York Rangers
1 July 2024 marked Carrick's arrival in New York. A significant vote of confidence came in the form of a three-year, $3 million contract. He was rewarded for that trust by featuring in 80 regular-season games in the 2024–25 season. Statistically, it was his best season to date, with 20 points, six goals and 14 assists. Throughout that season, his defence truly stood out, playing with grit and commitment.
Fast forward to this season, Carrick has featured in 27 games, scoring one goal and recording five assists. This season, the Rangers have a record of 13-12-2. The team will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing 4-1 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning; the defeat ended a three-game win streak, including an exceptional 6-2 win over the Boston Bruins.
New York will be hoping to improve their form as the season progresses. With experience etched into every shift, Carrick continues to be a steady force for the Rangers this season. Once again, he stands ready to leave his mark.
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“I Just Want to Keep Learning and Improving”: Tom Florence’s Journey
From Bridgend to the professional stage with the Ospreys, Tom Florence’s journey reflects the enduring passion of Welsh rugby.
Noah Kahan’s “Everywhere, Everything” unintentionally echoes the emotions of Welsh rugby fans through the years. Originally about a romantic renaissance, the stanza now encapsulates the euphoria and pride coursing through Welsh rugby for decades. Past successes seem distant, but while results have dwindled, the passion remains. Ospreys’ Tom Florence embodies that relentless drive. His journey is interesting from start to finish.
Born and bred in Bridgend
Florence’s hometown of Bridgend was where he built the bedrock of his career. In Bridgend, rugby isn’t just a sport; its history is woven into the town, producing generations of top-class players. The Bridgend Ravens are the team most associated with Bridgend. However, the Brewery Field isn’t where the young back took his first steps in rugby.
Instead, you must look to Newbridge Fields, just three minutes down the road. His love for the game began with Bridgend Sports. By 12, he had moved to the Athletic. That step would shape his rugby path. Whether it was for Bridgend Sports, Bridgend Athletic, Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Llangynwyd, Brynteg, or Bridgend, Florence’s journey is synonymous with the county of Bridgend. He talks through his early rugby life.
“It’s really special to have played for the Sports, the Ath, Brynteg, and now the Ravens, all clubs and teams that mean a lot to me and to everyone in Bridgend. My dad first took me down to play for Bridgend Sports when I was seven, alongside a few of my mates, which was really enjoyable.
“I moved over to Bridgend Athletic at under-12s and stayed there through to youth rugby. I loved my time with the Ath, playing alongside my mates every week and learning from some brilliant people. We had a great run as a team and reached the Ospreys under-16s final, where we lost to Gowerton. I played against one of my Ospreys teammates and now close friends, Cam Jones, that day. He still reminds me of it now.
“We had some top players in that team, with Ryan Neagle setting the example as captain, and some brilliant coaches who made a real impact on me. We finished that season with a tour to Amsterdam, which I’ll never forget.
“I started my school rugby in Llangynwyd, and I’ve got great memories from that time, especially in Year 11 when we went on an unbeaten run until the quarter-finals with Owain Tudur and Josh Hughes coaching us.
“Moving to Brynteg for sixth form was another amazing experience. Playing under Adam Rosser, we played a really exciting brand of rugby, and I got to be part of a team full of quality players, again captained by Ryan Neagle. Gus Patterson and I had a great centre partnership, and we reached the Welsh Cup semi-finals before COVID hit. We all believed we could have gone on to win it, and we were gutted when it got cut short.
“Playing for Bridgend Ravens at 18 was a huge moment for me and my family, especially my dad. Making my debut and scoring in the corner away at Llanelli is something I’ll never forget. We had some great wins that season, and being able to play alongside boys like Harri Deaves and Morgan Strong made a massive difference. Representing my hometown club and wearing that jersey means a lot. I’m really proud to come from Bridgend and to have come through all those teams along the way.”
After establishing a steadfast foundation in Bridgend, Florence reached a key transition point as he moved on to university life. Swansea University was the next chapter in his journey.
Swansea University
Nowadays, many of the country’s young talents compete on Wednesday for their chosen university. Swansea University is where Florence studied Sport Science and played in Super BUCS. It was a fruitful time for the university, which included a varsity day victory. Swansea beat rivals Cardiff University. Florence elaborates on his time in university and gives a shout-out to Nottingham’s Gwyn Parks.
“My time at Swansea Uni was a great experience and a really important part of my development. Playing BUCS rugby in my first season was a big learning curve. You’re up against quality teams and players every week, so it definitely helped me improve my game. Playing alongside boys like Gwyn Parks was brilliant too; he’s a top player and a great person.
“Winning Varsity at the Swansea.com Stadium has to be my favourite moment from my time there. The atmosphere, the build-up, and getting the win made it a day I’ll never forget.
Following his university years, Florence continued his development and earned a call-up to Wales U20s, signifying the next step in his rugby career.
Wales U20s
The 22-year-old was a constant figure throughout his time with Wales U20. He participated in three Six Nations championships. He cut his teeth against the finest young talent in the game. Playing for Wales U20s puts Florence in some esteemed company. The centre talks about how much it meant to him.
“Representing Wales U20s was a massive honour and something I’ll always be proud of. My first campaign was during COVID in 2021 at the Arms Park. Playing in an empty stadium was strange, but still a great honour, and it was brilliant that my parents could attend. I’ll always be grateful to Ioan Cunningham for giving me my first cap, which came against France. That whole campaign gave me some great memories.
“Getting the chance to go to the Junior World Cup in South Africa was another huge honour. To play against the best players in the world at that age, represent my country on that stage, and experience that environment was something really special.”
After his tenure with Wales U20s and rising through the Ospreys pathway, Florence made his senior debut in Durban against the Sharks in November 2022, marking the beginning of his professional club career.
Ospreys
“Playing for the Ospreys means a lot to me, especially getting the chance to play down the Brewery Field, the same ground where I grew up watching rugby. I’ve really enjoyed playing for the region I supported growing up. It’s a bit surreal running out there in an Ospreys jersey.”
Florence is a deeply proud member of the Ospreys family, as the quote above illustrates. There is a wealth of talent in the Ospreys’ midfield. Kieran Williams, Owen Watkin, Evardi Boshoff, and Phil Cokanasiga are phenomenal talents. Florence had to bide his time. The Welshman has shown he has all the tools to perform at the highest level.
His start in the fiery Welsh derby against the Dragons was a moment to remember. Then came a crisp October evening at the Brewery Field in 2024, where he helped the Ospreys overcome a star-laden Edinburgh side. The centre’s quality was on full display at Kingspan, where he sent the ball through the bitter Northern Irish wind into Keelan Giles’s hands (check out 04:06) , setting up a picturesque score against Ulster. Florence’s future shines with promise. More recently, he started against Glasgow Warriors under the Brewery Field lights. It wasn’t the result the Ospreys wanted, but for Florence, it was a special moment, playing for the Ospreys in his hometown. He discussed the game and reaffirmed his love for the club.
“Playing against the likes of Sione Tuipulotu for Glasgow was a great experience, a real test, and a brilliant learning opportunity. I love being part of this group too. Some of my best mates are at the club, which makes coming into training every day something I really look forward to. Players like Owen Watkin have been a massive help in my development. Learning off an international centre like him has been great, and he’s always willing to help me.”
With an eye towards the future, Florence’s mindset is straightforward: he plans to pursue improvement and relish every moment.
“My goals are to keep learning from the players around me, keep my head down and work hard, while enjoying the experience of playing professional rugby and improving every season.”
It will be fascinating to see what the future holds for Florence.
“Rugby means a lot to me as it’s something I love playing and that I’ve grown up with. My grandad and dad both supported Bridgend and loved going down to watch them at the Brewery Field. I’ve always been around the game. Some of my earliest memories are of watching matches there with my dad and friends on a Saturday. Just being part of that atmosphere meant a lot.” Florence’s journey is full of passion and hunger to be the best version of himself. His story is still being written. Florence’s drive is formidable as he looks to make his mark on the game.
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Alex Dunne: F1’s Next Big Opportunity
Alex Dunne is now a free agent after his shock split from McLaren.
Dutch Photo Agency / Red Bull Content Pool
An electrifying young talent has now become a free agent. Alex Dunne and McLaren have parted ways. It has left many people wondering where the Irish star could end up next. There has been a lot of speculation around Red Bull's interest in his services. Could this move add a new element to Red Bull's driver plans?
Alex Dunne
The Irish driver has already made a considerable impression. From starting karting in Ireland to working his way up the junior categories, he has built a steadfast foundation for a prosperous career. His first steps into single-seaters came in the Spanish F4 in 2021. Then, a season later, Dunne became the British F4 champion. Driving for Hitech GP, Dunne was unstoppable, claiming 11 victories and taking the title in commanding fashion. After time in F3, he moved up to F2 for 2025, racing for Rodin Motorsports. Dunne currently sits 5th in the standings with 130 points. He has stood atop the podium twice this season, in Bahrain and at Imola in the feature races. During this season, Dunne also took the F1 world by storm after impressive FP1 outings in Austria and Monza. There seems to be real momentum behind him, which is why it's a shock that McLaren let him go.
Why did McLaren let him go?
Many people may be wondering why McLaren let him go. They already have a young, talented line-up. Both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have shown they can compete at the front of the grid. The two drivers are young enough to stay dominant for the next decade. Yet this is Formula One, and the winds can change rapidly, especially with new regulations on the horizon. Should Piastri or Norris move on, McLaren's recent track record could tempt a star like Charles Leclerc to don the papaya colours in the future. All of this means that opportunities at the Woking-based outfit could be scarce for Dunne. The rising star could be hunting for a quicker way onto the grid.
On Red Bull's radar
A central talking point in F1 has been Red Bull's driver crisis. Ever since Daniel Ricciardo's departure, Red Bull has struggled to find a partner for Max Verstappen. This season, Red Bull's second driver performance has been inconsistent. After Liam Lawson's two-race stint, Yuki Tsunoda has driven the car. Results have been hard to come by, scoring three times out of 16. Isack Hadjar is the frontrunner to be in the Red Bull in 2026, which means that there could be an opening in the Racing Bulls team. Dunne's fellow F2 competitor, Arvid Lindblad, has been linked to the team. Yet it could be an option to put Dunne in the car in the future.
Dunne's talent burns bright, and if Red Bull backs him, the road to Formula One could open faster than anyone expects.
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Forged on Ice: The Rise of Para Ice Hockey
Para ice hockey is one of the events in the Games. It is a sport that is tremendous entertainment that is gearing up to write a new chapter in the upcoming Winter Paralympic Games. Para ice hockey is an entertaining game that has a great history; let’s explore it.
Credit: Mariska Richters
When you think about hockey, the NHL comes to mind. Teams such as the New York Rangers, Toronto Maple Leafs, and the Florida Panthers—franchises that are synonymous with the game. Yet, with the Winter Olympics rapidly approaching, the international game will look to showcase what it’s all about.
However, it’s not just the Winter Olympics that will be taking place, but also the Paralympics. Para sports are vital as they provide a platform for athletes to showcase their abilities in a sporting context. Para ice hockey is one of the events in the Games. It is a sport that is tremendous entertainment that is gearing up to write a new chapter in the upcoming Winter Paralympic Games. Para ice hockey is an entertaining game that has a great history; let’s explore it.
The Start of Para Ice Hockey
Para ice hockey is a sport of speed and intensity, driven by athletes with a desire to play the game they love. The game was brought to life by a group of individuals in the 1960s at a rehabilitation centre within the Swedish capital. It was born out of a desire not to let their physical disabilities stop them from playing the sport they loved. The game is played on a frozen surface, with players using a metal sledge mounted on two ice hockey blades. The design allows the puck to slide underneath the sledge. The rules are similar to ice hockey. A few modifications accommodate the players’ impairments. By 1969, Stockholm had its own five-team league and held the first international match, facing a team from Oslo. Foundations had been established, but they began to blossom throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
Going into the Paralympics
During the 1970s and 1980s, the game swept through Scandinavia, where Sweden and Norway showcased it on stages as grand as the inaugural 1976 Winter Paralympics. In the following years, the game expanded to the global stage, a testament to the determination and skill of the athletes. The likes of Great Britain, Canada, the USA, Japan, and Estonia formed teams, establishing a worldwide presence. 1994 marked the year when para ice hockey became a Winter Paralympic event. It has been a consistent feature ever since. Two years later, the inaugural World Championships took place, and in 2025, the first Women’s World Championships were held. It is an electrifying sport with many memorable and inspiring moments.
The game’s greats
There are too many sensational athletes to name when looking at the greats of the game. Of course, trailblazers such as Britt Mjaasund Oeyen and Rolf Johansson made a massive impact on the sport. U.S. goalie Steve Cash is regarded as one of the sport’s finest—a four-time Paralympic champion who built a stellar reputation for defending the goal with fierce consistency.
Lena Schroeder is a phenomenal player who competed at the PyeongChang Games and is a member of the Norwegian Women’s National Team. Declan Farmer has consistently made an impact on the ice. The American secured the 2018 Paralympic MVP. He also scored the overtime (OT) golden goal in the tournament to clinch the gold medal. More recently, he won the MVP award at the World Championships. For the USA’s Kelsey DiClaudio, greatness has been a constant companion. She lit up the 2014 Women’s International Cup with 23 points. More than a decade later, she stood out at the 2025 Women’s World Championships as MVP and top scorer. DiClaudio has become a defining figure in the sport.
This quote from Brianna Hennessy highlights just how important the Paralympics is: “The Paralympics means so much more because everyone here has a million reasons to give up, and we've all chosen to just go on... It's a bigger picture than the medals, it's a bigger picture than our country's flag. It's all of us coming together on that world stage and representing something greater than ourselves.”
The past is proud, the present is fierce, and the future of para ice hockey looks unstoppable.
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