Phil Lakos played for the Stouffville Spirit during the franchise’s third season, 1997-98.

He’d play in the Ontario Hockey League the next two seasons then spend five seasons in the ECHL with six franchises.

Lakos then signed in his native Austria where he has remained since 2003.

Now 39, he re-signed with his hometown Vienna Capitals where he is scheduled to play his 18th season.

Here’s the story from the Caps’ website:

No player name is as closely associated with the spusu Vienna Capitals as Phil Lakos. Vienna's club icon will celebrate its 40th birthday in a few days, and before that, the caps record crack signed a new contract. Lakos is going into his 18th (!) Season with his heart club.

"When I am needed, I am ready!"

“Our number 4, Phil Lakos” - these words will continue to echo through the Erste Bank Arena in the coming season. The tough Defender, who was the only player in Caps history to be on the ice for both championship titles in 2005 and 2017, continues his career. "For me, as every year, the motto is: If I am needed, then of course I am ready" , says Phil  Lakos , whose number "4" - in recognition of his achievements and loyalty to the association - was the "retired number" for them years ago Time after his career was banned.

Until then, the Viennese, who will celebrate his 40th birthday next Wednesday, still has a lot to do with his club. “The past season ended so abruptly due to the Corona, unfortunately the play-offs were over much too quickly. It is of course our goal this year to fight for the title, ” describes the 193cm tall defensive giant.

Top fit in the 18th caps season

Lakos, who became a father for the first time last June, spent the off-season almost exclusively at home due to the corona pandemic. In addition to changing diapers for daughter Lea, the 39-year-old was sweating in the in-house gym. “I'm in top shape and I'm looking forward to the new season,” said the defensive oldie looking forward to the start of training, which is planned for next week.

There, Vienna's record players (792 league games, 28 goals, 116 assists) will meet many young talents this season, who could theoretically be his children. “I played with them in the farm team Vienna Capitals Silver last season. The chance to get a taste of professional air has never been greater for our youngsters than in the coming season. Now they can prove that they have what it takes, ” says Lakos, who with his experience of 17 caps seasons is of course always on hand to offer advice and assistance.

Characteristics

Position: Defender

Date of birth: 08/19/1980

Age: 39 years

Height : 193cm

Weight: 97kg

Shot hand: right

Balance ICE HL: 792 games (28 goals, 117 assists)

Successes: EBEL champion 2004/2005, 2016/2017

Courtesy: Stouffville Spirit