Keefe Set for Tenth Season Behind Belfast Bench

Since his appointment in 2017, Keefe has delivered an unprecedented period of sustained success, guiding the Giants to 11 major trophies - five Challenge Cups, five Elite League championships, and one Elite League Playoff title - and their first-ever domestic treble in the 2022/23 season. Keefe’s record undoubtedly speaks for itself and makes him the most decorated Head Coach the organisation has ever seen, firmly establishing Belfast as one of the most dominant forces in the Elite Ice Hockey League.

Steve Thornton, Sports Director of The Odyssey Trust, said: “Adam’s impact on this organisation has been significant and sustained. To deliver 11 trophies and become the most successful Head Coach in the club’s history speaks volumes about his ability, his leadership, and his understanding of what it takes to succeed time and time again at this level. Beyond results, he has built a culture that demands consistency and accountability every single day.

“As we look ahead to next season, continuity is a key part of our strategy. Adam has repeatedly demonstrated his ability to evolve, to recruit effectively, and to keep the team competitive in what is an increasingly challenging league. We are confident that under his leadership, the Giants will continue to compete at the top of the Elite League and represent the organisation and the city with distinction.”

Adam Keefe’s impact extends far beyond the ice. As a proud patron of Autism NI and regular supporter of the club’s charitable initiatives, Keefe has consistently given his time to invaluable causes and embodies the organisation’s mantra that ‘In the Land of Giants, Everyone is Equal’.

Commenting on his return as Head Coach for the 2026/27 season, Adam Keefe said: “I’m incredibly proud to be coming back for a tenth season as Head Coach of this club. When I first stepped into the role, the goal was to build something that could compete year in, year out, and I think what we’ve achieved together over that time reflects the commitment and standards that exist right across the organisation. Winning 11 trophies is something I don’t take lightly, and it’s a credit to the players, staff, and fans who have driven this team forward.

“But we’re not interested in standing still. Every season brings a new challenge, and we know the expectations in Belfast are as high as anywhere else in the Elite League. Our focus is now on building a roster that can compete on all fronts again, pushing ourselves to improve, and make sure we’re in a position to challenge for more silverware. We’ll approach next season with the same hunger and work ethic that’s defined us, and we’re determined to give our fans a team they can be proud of.”

This summer, Keefe will add another impressive feat to his CV as he heads up 3ICE Great Britain in the inaugural 3ICE World Cup. Keefe will go head-to-head with an impressive lineup of renowned coaches, including four-time Stanley Cup winner Larry Murphy, three-time Stanley Cup champion Ken Daneyko, and two-time Stanley Cup winner Johnny Oduya, who will lock horns at the home of the Belfast Giants on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 July.

2026/27 Belfast Giants season tickets are on sale for a limited time only, with the full schedule of Elite League and Challenge Cup fixtures expected soon. For more information or to secure your seat ahead of the new campaign, click here.