Kevin Raine retires

Photo: William Cherry

Belfast Giants announced on Thursday afternoon that defenseman Kevin Raine it retiring with immediate effect on medical grounds. 

During his career with the Giants, the 29-year-old appeared for the men in teal a total of 225 times (EIHL, Challenge Cup and playoff games) in five seasons. In this time, he’s notched up 13 goals, 60 assists, good for 73 points.

 When Raine arrived in Belfast in 2017 from the ECHL's Florida Everblades, Giants’ head coach Adam Keefe called him “my type of player.” Leadership qualities have proven to be prevalent in Raine’s suite of skills, with being named as Giants’ Alternate Captain in his last two seasons with the club, he also previously held the Captaincy of the OHL’s Sudbury Wolves.

"It has not been an easy decision, but ultimately the best one for me at this time. I’ve been lucky to have played the way I have for so long and am excited to find similar success in what comes next," said Raine.

 “Since 2017, I’ve had the pleasure of playing alongside some of the best people I’ve ever met, in front of the best fans I’ve ever seen, in one the most special places I’ve ever been. The city of Belfast has a huge place in my heart – the time I’ve spent here makes up the most transformative years of my life. I thank the fans for their support – and I'll miss nothing more than everyone meeting me at the glass after a big home win."

 “Rainer has done Giant things for this team, this organisation, and the fans that follow us," added Head Coach Adam Keefe. "On the ice, he knew what it took to win and was willing to do anything to help his team do so. He was the league's best defenceman, that other teams feared playing against. Off the ice, he understood what it meant to be a Belfast Giant in the community.

 “We’d like to thank Kevin, for five incredible seasons in Belfast. Whilst we're disappointed to see him go, this is the start of an exciting new chapter for him, and we wish him all the best for what lies ahead.”