Stewart Cleared to Play for Great Britain
Published on October 3, 2011 under Western Hockey League (WHL)
Spokane Chiefs News Release
Spokane Chief rookie Liam Stewart has been cleared to play for the Great Britain National Program (Ice Hockey UK (IHUK)). Stewart, who was born in London and has a British passport, was raised in The United States and played for the LA Kings under-16 team last season, scoring 24 goals. He was listed by the Chiefs in September, 2009 and has appeared in Spokane's first two games of the regular season.
Stewart said, "I'm very proud to be cleared to play for the country that I was born in. I know my Dad would be especially proud so it was exciting to hear that it was approved. It's an honor, as I consider Great Britain to be one of my homes."
Chairman of IHUK, Eamon Convery, added: "We have worked very hard to make this happen and IHUK secretary, Andy French, has been in contact with the IIHF for months.
"Liam Stewart is a talented player and we are thrilled to have him available for GB selection."
Stewart would be eligible to play for Great Britain once the Spokane Chiefs season is over.
The 17-year-old is the son of rockstar Rod Stewart, who was born and raised in England, and model Rachel Hunter, a New Zealand native.
"Being Rod Stewart's son will no doubt mean huge interest in his career but I am sure Liam is keen to carve a path of his own."
Stewart, if selected, is now eligible for the Under-18s World Championships (Division Two) in the Netherlands next March.
GB U18s head coach Mark Beggs said: "It's great news that we have been able to secure the approval from the IIHF that makes Liam eligible for Great Britain.
"As head coach you need to be aware of every single player, who can play for the country and do in-depth scouting and request feedback to make sure they fit within the team."
GB senior head coach Paul Thompson added: "I think Liam will want to be known and want to be respected for the hockey player he is.
"We will keep an eye on him and look at his development for the senior team down the road.
"It is great that his family want him to represent Great Britain and I might be working with him in a short period of time with the senior squad."
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