Belfast Giants to honour 2026 Hall of Fame inductees and club legends next month

The three new inductees will be formally honoured in a pre-game ceremony before the Giants take on the Cardiff Devils at The O2 Belfast on Friday 11 December, officially recognising their outstanding contributions to the club both on and off the ice.

Two of the most formidable defencemen in the club’s history, Mark Garside and Rob Sandrock amassed more than 950 combined appearances for the Giants between 2002 and 2024, contributing to a staggering 14 trophies – seven League championships, five Challenge Cups, and two Playoff titles. Both former alternate captains, Garside and Sandrock’s contributions helped place Belfast on the map, paving the way for the Giants to grow into one of the most formidable forces in Motorpoint Elite League history.

Deservedly joining Garside and Sandrock is long-standing volunteer Lynne Allsopp, who has been a devoted and invaluable member of Giants game nights for more than 25 years. A true “day oner”, Lynne has made a profound impact on players, coaches, staff, and fans alike, providing an ever-present calming presence and unmatched passion for the Giants.

Steve Thornton, sports director at The Odyssey Trust, said: “We’re incredibly proud to welcome Mark, Rob, and Lynne into the Belfast Giants Hall of Fame.

“Each has played an important role in shaping the club’s history, making contributions that have left a lasting impact both on and off the ice.

“Their dedication and influence deserve to be celebrated, and it’s a privilege to recognise them alongside some of the most significant figures in the Giants’ history.”

Thornton added: “The Hall of Fame is about honouring the people who have helped make this club what it is today.

“It’s an opportunity to reflect on their achievements, recognise the impact they’ve had, and ensure their contributions are remembered by future generations of Giants fans.

“Mark, Rob, and Lynne are thoroughly deserving of this recognition, and we look forward to celebrating this special occasion with them and our supporters.”

In addition to the three new inductees, eight Giants legends – Shane Johnson, Colin Ward, Rob Stewart, Graeme Walton, Colin Shields, Paxton Schulte, Todd Kelman, and Adam Keefe – whose retired jerseys have long hung in the rafters at the home of the Belfast Giants, will also take their rightful place in the Hall of Fame on Friday 11 December.

The late Jim Gillespie, former owner and honorary life president of the Belfast Giants, will also be formally inducted in recognition of his extraordinary contribution to the club. Affectionately known as ‘Mr Belfast’, Gillespie played a pivotal role in securing the Giants’ future during a critical period in their history, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to shape the organisation today.

The full class of 2026 joins Bob Zeller, Albert Maasland, David Whistle, Jason Bowen, Mark Morrison, George Awada, Jason Ellery, Stephen Murphy, and Jason Ruff as official Belfast Giants Hall of Famers, marking the third annual round of inductions since the club celebrated its 25th season during the 2024/25 campaign.

Adam Keefe, head coach of the Belfast Giants, said: “I am absolutely delighted for Mark, Rob, and Lynne. Each of them has made a tremendous contribution to the Belfast Giants in their own way, and it’s fantastic to see them receive the recognition they deserve. The history of this club has been shaped by some incredible people, both on and off the ice, and all three have played an important part in that.”

He added: “I feel very fortunate to have been part of the Giants’ journey and to stand alongside so many great individuals who have helped make this organisation what it is today.

“The Hall of Fame is a fitting way to celebrate those contributions, and I couldn’t be happier to see Mark, Rob, and Lynne take their place among such deserving company.”