Defenceman Mark Richardson becomes Great Britain’s all-time leader in appearances today as he moves onto 117 caps against Norway in the Final Olympic Qualifiers in Aalborg.
Richie moves one ahead of Jonathan Phillips, who is part of GB’s coaching staff in Denmark, and was on hand to be part of a special presentation before the game.
Richardson was presented with a commemorative mini trophy by Phillips and Ice Hockey UK General Secretary Andy French, while GB General Manager Andy Buxton made a speech in the dressing room.
Robert Dowd handed Richardson the C for tonight’s game and the defenceman will captain GB against Norway.
Richardson made his GB debut 19 years ago and has been part of 24 major tournaments with the national side.
His first goal came in only his fifth game in his debut tournament in 2005 when he was on the scoresheet in a 10-0 win over China in the World Championship Division 1 Group A in Hungary.
Richardson has scored eight goals in total for GB and added 24 assists for 32 points.
General Manager, Andy Buxton, said: “I have been doing this role for 17 years and Richie was an important member of the team before I even started, which just shows the incredible length of service he has given to GB.
“I just want to both thank and congratulate him on being a great support to me and an outstanding leader within our group.
“Every player who has been part of a Great Britain team with Richie thinks the world of him and he’s been a truly great role model for everyone who has pulled on a GB jersey.”
Andy French, Ice Hockey UK General Secretary, said: “I have watched Richie since the start of his GB career.
“It has been an honour to watch nearly every single game he has played for GB and he has become a true leader.
“He leads by example on and off the ice and is so respected in the dressing room and across the world of ice hockey.
“It was a honour to be in the dressing room for the presentation and it really is a special day today for Richie and GB.”
