Mario Belanger Podcast Interview

Former Durham Wasps, Basingstoke Beavers, Nottingham Panthers and Telford Tigers forward Mario Belanger joins the show to reflect on a UK career filled with goals, controversy and unforgettable moments. Arriving in the UK in February 1987 as a replacement import for Durham Wasps, Mario quickly became a fan favourite. He starred in the 1987 Wembley Playoff Finals, scoring a hat trick in the semi-final against Fife Flyers before lifting the Championship with a win over Murrayfield Racers. Despite success, Mario returned to Canada early the following season, triggering a five-year ban from British hockey. After its expiry, he returned with Basingstoke Beavers, reuniting with Kevin Conway and helping the club win Heineken Division One, the Playoff Championship and promotion to the Premier Division. Tempted back from retirement in 1994 by Nottingham Panthers, Mario enjoyed a strong season despite the club again falling short of the title. His final UK spell with the Telford Tigers proved short-lived amid instability, before he retired for good. Now a police officer, Mario looks back fondly on his UK years—especially that magical Wembley triumph with Durham.