OXFORD City Stars’ final home game of the season was a special night for club stalwart Andy Cox, as he iced at Oxpens for the last time after announcing his retirement.

The defenceman, 35, went out in style, scoring two goals in a 10-1 win (14-4 on agg) over Bristol Pitbulls.

Cox was made captain for the fixture, awarded man of the match and left the ice to a standing ovation and a guard of honour by his team-mates.

Bought up in Oxford, he joined the junior club when he was 11-years-old and played 17 seasons for the Stars.

He said: “It means the world to me to have played for my home club.

“It was an emotional night, my family were all there and it meant everything to me to be captain and score two goals.

“I can’t thank everyone enough for such a great send-off.”

Looking back on his career, Cox said: “On a couple of occasions, I played elsewhere when Oxford folded, but it was never the same.

“Oxford is such a special club, this is my home and I know everyone and how much so many people have put into it to make Stars successful.

“It’s a very special club. Even players who play one season for us continue to follow us and come back and visit.

“There’s something about Oxford that is different, it’s a family.”

Cox made his debut for the Stars when he was 18 as a forward after graduating from the junior system.

He has won three league titles with the club, has experienced many highs and lows and believes the club has a great future.

He said: “The highlight of my career was winning the title for the first time with the Stars.

“I also played briefly in the Elite League for the Edinburgh Capitals which was incredible.

“But playing for my home club has been the best achievement for me – to be part of ice hockey in Oxford has been a dream.

“To finish my career with the double and then the play-offs are incredible really.

“I don’t know how I will feel when I stop playing.

“It is the right time to retire, I will miss competing and the release you get from hockey, but I’m looking forward to seeing more of my family and giving my body a rest!

“I will play some rec hockey and come and watch some games.

“ The club will always be part of my life.”