Ice Hockey: Mulvenna to coach the Devils.

Byline: Terry Phillips

GLENN Mulvenna will be appointed Cardiff Devils ice hockey coach within the next few days.

That looks certain after Troy Walkington opted to stay with his current club Flin Flon Bombers in the Saskatchewan Junior League. ``Glenn and I have talked at length and he's keen to get involved,'' said Devils owner Chris McSorley. ``We'd have loved Troy to return, but Glenn will do an outstanding job for Cardiff.''

Mulvenna, 35, is preparing to fly in within the next seven days, as soon as possible after contract details are finalised with McSorley. Canadian Mulvenna was coach to Peterborough Pirates last season, taking over when the team was in trouble and lifting them up the Findus British National League table.

``I know how tough Cardiff is for a visiting team - I've been there to play against the Devils quite a few times,'' said Mulvenna.

``They've had top quality teams in the past, the fans know their hockey and we'll do everything possible to build a team for the coming season who can challenge with the best.

``The fans have a crucial role to play in the future of Cardiff Devils - nobody can do well there without them.'' Centreman Mulvenna had brief NHL experience with Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, also playing for Knoxville Cherokees (East Coast HL), Muskegon Lumberjacks (International HL), Fort Wayne Komets (IHL), Hershet Bears (American HL), Peoria Rivermen (IHL), Kalamazoo Wings (IHL), Newcastle Riverkings and Sheffield Steelers (Superleague) plus Feldkirch (Austria).