Walker returns to Sydney, catches a win at the Kennel

Australian NHL prospect, Nathan Walker attended last night’s AIHL game to open the proceedings, dropping the puck as the Sydney Ice Dogs hosted the Newcastle Northstars at the Macquarie Ice Rink.

Nathan Walker returns to his former stomping ground in Sydney. Photo: Peter Podlaha

Walker is back in Australia for some much needed rest and relaxation, fresh from signing a new two-year contract extension with the Washington Capitals organisation.

Walker has been playing in for the Capitals’ minor league affiliate the Hershey Bears for the past three seasons and his impressive play and development into a gritty forward saw the Capitals eager to get the young Australia locked in for the another two seasons.

“To me it shows they’ve got faith in me,” said Walker.

“It’s really good going forward confidence wise, hopefully I can get a game in the NHL and crack a spot in the Capitals roster.”

The hometown hero was welcomed to the Macquarie Ice Rink with a huge cheer from the Sydney crowd. Walker, who played most of his junior hockey in Europe, played 7 games for the Ice Dogs back in 2009 and 2010, before being drafted by the Washington Capitals in the 2014 NHL entry draft.

Speaking about what else has his attention, Walker noted a major off-ice milestone coming up.

“I’ve got a wedding coming up next (USA) summer,” said a smiling Nathan beside his fiancé.

The Ice Dogs put on an impressive show for Walker, defeating the travelling Northstars 7-2.

“It’s always good to see the boys (Ice Dogs) get on top,” said Walker, “the guys have been working hard all year and it was good to see them get a big win tonight.”

Catch Walker’s full interview with AIHL Commentator Luke Worthington on Monday.