The Heated Take - Unofficial Guildford Flames Podcast

In Episode 19, we look back on the 25/26 season in full.From early expectations to where things ultimately landed, we break down the key moments that defined the year: the runs, the dips, and the big turning points. We get into what worked, what didn’t, and where this Guildford Flames side really stands heading into the offseason.We also pick out our standout performers, biggest surprises, and the areas that need serious attention if the club wants to take the next step next year.A proper, honest season review to wrap things up.

In this episode of The Heated Take, we sit down with Guildford Flames defenceman Travis Brown.From being drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks to playing alongside NHL talent in the WHL, Travis takes us through his journey from Canada to the pro game, across North America and Europe, and into the EIHL.We discuss his move to Guildford, stepping into a leadership role, and his recent Team GB call-up, as well as life in the dressing room and the challenges of this season.A really open and insightful conversation with one of the Flames’ key players.

In Episode 17, we’re joined by Rory as he officially joins The Heated Take team, and we take a step back to look at where the Guildford Flames really stand heading into the final stretch of the season.We break down the last 20 games, name our Flame of the Quarter, and get into some big talking points around the club including the departures of Kupsky and Gravelle, Travis Brown making Team GB, and early Player of the Year shouts across offence, defence and most improved.We also cover injuries, off-ice updates like the awards dinner and season ticket caps, before going around the EIHL with Nottingham’s Challenge Cup win and Pete Russell’s move to MK. To finish, we answer your questions including league MVP picks and how we match up against Cardiff in the playoffs.

In episode 16 of The Heated Take, Will sits down with one of the best players to ever wear a Guildford Flames jersey. He was an Elite League All Star and our first ever EIHL captain: it’s Jesse Craige.Jesse looks back on his early days in hockey, his time with the University of Alberta ‘Golden Bears’, his move to Europe and his three seasons with Guildford.Jesse talks about the highs and lows of our infancy in the EIHL and gives his take on some of the great players that hit Spectrum ice during that time.Jesse talks about his relationship with Flames legends including Ferguson, Reddick and Dunbar, and we hope you enjoy this interview with a modern day Guildford Flames legend.

In this episode of The Heated Take, we sit down with Guildford Flames forward Jamal Watson for an honest and wide-ranging conversation about the journey behind the career.From growing up in Alberta and captaining in the WHL, to his USports years at Mount Royal, a stint in the SPHL, and building a pro career across the UK, Austria, and Germany, Jamal’s path hasn’t followed the typical North American ladder — and that’s what makes it so interesting.We talk about his first spell in Guildford, what pulled him back for a second, life playing in Innsbruck and Kaufbeuren, adapting to different leagues and cultures, and how he’s handled an injury-hit season — including that hat-trick night on the wing.There’s teammate quick fire, honest reflections on this year, and a look at the person behind the number 42.If you want more than just stats, this one’s for you.

In episode 14 of The Heated Take, Will sits down with a true Flames icon. His jersey hangs in the rafters at The Spectrum. It’s none other than former Player/Coach, Head Coach and GM, Stan Marple. Stan reminisces on his early days in hockey, his move to the UK, his 10 years with Guildford and his current role as GM of the Golden Bears at the University of Alberta.Stan also shares his insights on some of the most iconic Flames players over the years, including many that he played an instrumental role in bringing them to the club. Stan shares so many great stories and we hope you enjoy this interview with a true Guildford Flames legend.

In Episode 13 of The Heated Take, Freddie and Fiona sit down with Guildford Flames COO Kirk Humphreys for an open and wide-ranging conversation about the club, the league, and the questions Flames fans care about most.Kirk reflects on his journey from growing up in Alberta to playing for the Flames, before moving off the ice into senior leadership. We talk about the realities of running a professional hockey club, how decisions get made behind the scenes, and how the Flames have evolved over time.We also put fan questions front and centre, covering player movement and communication, injuries, recruitment and scouting, physicality and fighting, team competitiveness, fan experience, and the long-term outlook for the arena. It’s a respectful, honest discussion about where the club is now, where it’s trying to get to, and how supporters fit into that future.

It’s Clan From the Stands podcast takeover as we are joined by Ross, Phil and Colin.We react to a weekend of extremes for Clan — a disappointing home defeat to the Blaze followed by a statement demolition away in Dundee. We assess the season so far, asking whether cup progress hides a worrying league drop-off, if Clan are underachieving with 5th the realistic ceiling, and where the pressure from Fife and Dundee now sits. There’s debate on forward production, the goaltending situation with Sami on IR, whether Brine deserves a longer run, and what Tedesco has added to the lineup. Off the ice, we discuss fan frustrations, club decisions, and the open letter to the organisation.We also preview Clan vs Guildford Flames, analysing the Flames’ squad, form, injuries, and key players ahead of Friday at Braehead. Guildford have won all meetings so far — but with tight games and fine margins, can Clan finally turn it around?Score predictions, talking points, and the Clan mailbag to finish.

Panthers Podcast – Episode PreviewFresh off Conti Cup glory, it’s a big one in Panthers land. We break down what that win means, how the tournament unfolded, and why Nottingham are right in the mix for a potential Grand Slam. With the league shaping up as a genuine three-horse race, confidence is high, but challenges remain.We look ahead to a mouth-watering Cup semi-final against the Steelers and ask whether this Panthers side, bolstered by key additions like Pearson, Harris, and Carr, might be the most exciting team in the league right now. Injuries are the main concern. Who’s close to returning, what’s the outlook on the walking wounded, and which trophy would mean the most if Panthers could only choose one?Then it’s over to Guildford Flames. A season of flashes and frustration, with injuries playing a huge role. On their day they can beat anyone, but is this shaping up to be a season of “what ifs”? We assess Dixon’s roster, the impact of Ully, Seitz, and Gosselin, standout performers, and whether a likely 5th-place finish would feel like underachievement.We also dig into why Panthers vs Flames always seems to deliver tight, entertaining hockey… and finish with score predictions you won’t want to miss.

Freddie, Will, Dean and Fiona break down a packed schedule that included statement wins away in Nottingham, gritty one goal battles against Cardiff, and a frustrating home defeat to the Devils that left players and fans baffled by a disallowed goal and a lack of clarity from the officials. The panel reacts to how that moment felt in the building, how it shifted the game, and why communication still feels like an issue in key moments.We then move into Flames Focus, with each panellist highlighting the players who have stood out during this stretch. Dean also provides a full injury update and what the return of key bodies could mean as the season heads into its defining phase.There’s also discussion around international call ups, with Fazio’s Italy selection raising wider questions about squad depth and the overall quality of the EIHL, before turning attention to the league as a whole. With scoring down and the league more competitive than ever, we ask the big question, do the Flames only really raise their game against the top teams?Finally, we dive into a loaded fan mailbag. Will the Flames make finals weekend? What really needs to change next season? Who is your favourite Flames player of all time, and if you could sign one player from around the league right now, who would it be?Plenty of opinions, plenty of debate, and as always, plenty of Heated Takes.

Episode 11: Michael Crocock InterviewThis week on The Heated Take, we sit down with Guildford Flames fan favourite Michael Crocock.Mike opens up about what life looks like after playing, what he is up to these days, and why coaching from the bench can be even tougher than being out on the ice. We talk about the challenge of watching games unfold when all you want to do is jump over the boards and make a difference.He also shares his thoughts on what he would change if he was in charge at Guildford, and reflects on just how special that Flames side was that finished second and pushed all the way in the league race.A genuinely lovely guy, incredibly open, super friendly, and someone Flames fans will always have a soft spot for. Give it a listen and enjoy.

This week, we put the spotlight firmly on the Welsh giants as the Cardiff Devils take centre stage.We break down a Devils roster stacked with bite, skill, and depth, including two reliable netminders and a lineup built to play any style. But after a shock early exit from the Challenge Cup and no Continental Cup distraction, is the pressure now firmly on league and playoffs?The Devils have taken scalps against Sheffield and Belfast, yet Scotland has proven a stumbling block. Why the inconsistency—and does fixing it make Cardiff genuine title contenders?Plus… as founding members of the Brett Ferguson fan club, we ask how good it feels to finally see Fergie pulling on Devils colours.Then it’s onto the Flames.Why have recent Devils vs Guildford matchups been so one-sided? Is Cardiff’s ability to drag teams into a physical battle the key? We assess Guildford’s roster, the added spice of ex-Devils faces, and whether the Flames are dark horses for top four or staring down a tight playoff race.Does a lack of size hurt Guildford against teams that can match them both physically and technically? Predictions: The last Flames win over Cardiff came a year ago in a game defined by bare benches. Can Guildford change the script this time?All that, plus AOB, in this week’s Cardiff Devils Takeover episode.

Episode 10 of The Heated Take is here and it’s packed with opinion, debate, and Flames insight. Freddie, Dean, and Will break down a wild run of form for Guildford, including momentum swings, resilience, and what the recent results really say about this team. The lads dive into the Belfast away doubleheader from an in-person perspective, hand out Player of the Month honours, and run through the latest injury updates and roster rumours. There’s also a quickfire EIHL roundup, table outlook, upcoming game predictions, and a loaded fan mailbag covering everything from league discipline to line chemistry.

In this episode of The Heated Takeover, we break down one of the most intriguing EIHL matchups of the season, Guildford Flames vs Belfast Giants, with special guest Patrick Smyth, host of the Giants’ own podcast A View From the Bridge.Belfast haven’t looked as dominant as in past years, especially against the Flames. We dig into why teams may be approaching them differently, their uneven Challenge Cup form despite topping the group, and whether their CHL and Cup performances hint that they’re still dark horses in the league race. We also spotlight the impact of Lee and Kawaguchi and the under-the-radar contributors who deserve more credit.For Guildford, the season feels on a knife edge heading into Christmas. We discuss their slide from title contenders to playoff chasers, the risks of an inexperienced roster, and the looming question: could this be the year they miss out? We revisit their recent split results — a gritty 2–1 Flames win followed by a strong Giants response — and look ahead to what style of hockey to expect in this weekend’s double-header in Belfast.Plus: what the Flames must do to get points, and our score predictions.If you’re into EIHL storylines, swings in form, and honest insight, you won’t want to miss this one.

In Episode 9, we sit down with Guildford Flames forward Jack Jacome for a brilliant deep-dive into his hockey story, from growing up in Caledon and dominating junior hockey, to captaining Clarkson University and making the jump to pro in Europe.Jack talks us through:His upbringing in a hockey familyA standout 91-point junior season and winning OJHL MVPLeadership, awards, and development at ClarksonThe realities of moving abroad to play in Austria and DenmarkWhy he chose Guildford and how he settled so quickly into the EIHLWe then head inside the locker room as Jack reveals:Funniest teammateBest and worst dressedBest/Worst DJWho causes the most chaosWhat life in Guildford is really likePlus, we put your fan questions to him; including his NHL team, living situation, favourite Guildford spots, and even what he’d cook on a date.A sharp, fun, and insight-packed conversation with one of the Flames’ standout players.

Flyers chaos, Flames injuries and big decisions on both sides..... Jordan Byers joins The Heated Take Over to break down Fife's rebuild, Guildford's stuttered start, key signings, bold leadership changes and preview a crucial Flyers vs Flames matchup with predictions.

Brett Ferguson’s back in the EIHL — but wearing Cardiff red. Freddie, Fiona, and guest host Will (The Guildford Flames Fan on X) react to the news, break down another tough stretch for the Flames, and ask what’s really behind the growing injury crisis.Plus: new signings, GB’s performance at the European Nations, and a surprise fan mailbag with your hottest takes.

Introducing The Heated Take Over Side Series — a new fan-focused spin-off exploring upcoming EIHL match-ups through the voices of podcast hosts and fans across the league.In Episode 1, Dean sits down with Sheffield Steelers supporter and podcast host David Grant to preview the Flames–Steelers double-header — discussing form, key players, and what to expect from one of November’s most anticipated weekends of hockey.Designed to bring together different perspectives from around the EIHL, The Over Side Series shines a light on fan culture, rivalry, and insight from every corner of the league.

This week on The Heated Take, Freddie and Fiona chat with Guildford Flames captain Matt Alvaro about his hockey journey, settling into life in the UK, and what it’s really like leading the team.We get into everything from the dynamics in the dressing room to how the group handles big moments on and off the ice. Matt also shares a few stories that give a great glimpse into the personality of this year’s squad.Oh, and did you know Jake Kupsky makes a mean mac and cheese?

This week, Freddie and Fiona take the mic to look back on a strong run of form for the Guildford Flames. With eight points from a possible ten across five games, the team is showing real signs of momentum. The hosts break down each matchup, from dominant wins over Glasgow, Fife, and Manchester to the tight losses that still showed plenty of fight.They also dig into the Flames’ recent turnaround, Fazio’s standout performances in net, and the growing injury list that’s testing the team’s depth. Plus, there’s plenty of chat around the league, including Mitchell Heard’s move to Sheffield, Fife’s open letter to fans, and reaction to the Financial Times feature on women in hockey.A packed episode full of honest analysis, league insight, and cautious optimism for what’s ahead.

This week we sit down with defenceman Kyle Locke for an honest and wide-ranging conversation. We dive into his hockey journey, his time in Guildford, and that unforgettable season when the Flames came so close to winning the league. Kyle opens up about what made that team special, what led to his departure over the summer, and how life’s been treating him since joining Manchester.Don’t miss this one — it’s insightful, candid, and gives a real look behind the curtain at one of the most talked-about moves of the offseason.

Seven games in, one win on the board, and the Flames are already facing big questions. In this episode, we break down a bruising run of results, ask if their early style of play is working — and whether they only have one style — and dig into the netminder debate. We also touch on the team morale, is it telling that Paul Dixon has not been taking interviews, and what fans are saying off the ice. Plus, we look around the league, preview a tough run of fixtures, and give our score predictions, all with a few heated takes along the way.

This week on The Heated Take, we’re joined by 3on3 Podcast’s Scott Findlay to get the lowdown ahead of the Guildford Flames’ clash with the Coventry Blaze. Scott gives his take on what to expect from this year’s Blaze roster, shares his predictions for the weekend, and lifts the lid on how the Flames are seen from the outside. From favourite players to the ones you love to hate (yes, Fergie gets a mention), this is an episode Flames fans won’t want to miss.

The Flames lost all three preseason games against Amiens, Cardiff, and Coventry, but does that really mean we’re in for a tough year? In this episode we review the performances, look at which new signings have caught the eye, and discuss who might provide the goals this season. We also share our thoughts on the captaincy decision and what it means heading into the campaign.

In our debut episode of the heated take, the unofficial Guildford Flames podcast, we look back at the end of last season, discuss key departures like Brett Ferguson, and break down how the current roster is shaping up under Paul Dixon. We also share our first impressions of the new signings and what fans can expect from the upcoming pre-season games.