Bair Gendunov Announces His Retirement
Gendunov originally committed to return to the Steeldogs for the 2026/27 season after making a significant impact during his debut campaign. However, an opportunity to begin a professional career away from hockey has led the 26-year-old to make the decision to pursue the next chapter of his life.
Gendunov leaves Sheffield having played a starring role in one of the club’s most memorable moments of the 2025/26 season.
With the NIHL Cup Final tied at 6-6 on aggregate and overtime required to decide the destination of the trophy, Gendunov stepped up with just 11 seconds remaining to fire home the winning goal and secure the Cup for the Steeldogs.
It was a fitting moment for a player who enjoyed a remarkable first season in the NIHL. Gendunov recorded 43 goals and 43 assists for 86 points in 47 regular-season appearances, before adding six goals and six assists in seven playoff games.
The league would like to congratulate Bair on an excellent career and wish him every success as he begins the next chapter away from the sport.
Everyone across the NIHL thanks Bair for his contribution to the league and to the Sheffield Steeldogs, and we hope to see him back around the hockey world in the future.
