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Hill on the up

Devils winger rewarded with GB selection

By Neil Chiplen Last updated: 23rd March 2009

Thompson: Hill praise

Paul Thompson has recognised Cardiff Devils forward Phil Hill's best year yet by bringing him into the Team GB picture.

Hill, 26, has been selected to Thompson's initial 30-man roster for the World Championships in Torun, Poland, in April and could feature in the final squad.

With 22 goals and 25 assists, Hill has more than doubled his previous Elite League totals and powered an injury-hit Devils squad.

"He's maturing as a player and has scored a lot of goals this year," said Thompson, speaking exclusively to skysports.com.

"With the injuries that Cardiff have had, Phil's really stepped up his play and helped his team through their problems."

Hill, who is the only Devils player to be selected, has benefited from playing with imports and often lines up alongside playmaker Jay Latulippe and team captain Brad Voth.

Hill's performance in the final stages of the season will be critical because Thompson has to cut seven players from the 30-man roster and has stated that there are already 14 men assured of their spots.

Thompson could be swayed by the versatility Hill brings as a power-forward, despite not being used to playing in the larger European-style rinks.

"He deserves to be in the 30 and will be in serious consideration for the final roster," said Thompson, who will make his decision for the 23-man squad before the training camp begins.

"He's used to playing in a small rink, but he's still done enough to make the initial squad."