Giovanni Raffaelli, Cardiff Devils under 16’s player has made the cut into the South West Conference under 15’s squad.

Giovanni, a Whitchurch High pupil, comes from a "multi-cultured" family – his dad is Italian and mum is Czech. The whole family, including younger brother Giacomo have been fans of ice hockey and the Devils for years.

Giovanni himself has been playing the sport for six years now, but this is his first shot at South West Conference ice hockey, and he has worked extremely hard to get his chance. As has Devils team mate Josh Haslam, who also made the squad.

Both endured four rounds of trials and assessments before being told of their successful selection.

There will be no rest for the lads, as the hard work must continue. In addition to their club commitments the boys can expect a trip abroad to play in an international tournament before taking part in the all important Hull Conference weekend tournament.

This tournament is held at the end of the season and brings together the best players from the four Great Britain Conference teams - North, South, East and West. It is from this weekend that scouts view potential new players to become representatives of England and GB national squads.

It is an achievement in itself to get invited to trail for South West Conference teams, so well done to all Cardiff Juniors who trailed.

To Giovanni and Josh - the Cardiff Devils players, fans and management congratulate you both and wish you all the best with your South West Conference Squad.