After more than a decade in the AIHL, Cam Todd finds himself skating into unfamiliar territory, but with familiar determination. The veteran forward is embracing a new chapter with the Canberra Brave in 2025, bringing leadership, versatility, and a deep passion for Australian hockey to the Canberra lineup.

From Uncertainty to Opportunity

Todd’s move to the Brave came under difficult circumstances. When rumours began swirling around the closure of Sydney’s rink, he was told not to worry until an emergency Zoom call made it official: the Ice Dogs wouldn’t be hitting the ice in 2025.

“It was pretty devastating,” Todd admitted. “We were making a lot of positive moves forward, and it felt like we’d been set back.” But there wasn’t time to dwell, the next step had to come fast.

Logistics made Canberra a convenient option, but it was the Brave’s reputation, and some trusted voices that sealed the deal. “I talked to some of the boys who I have known through the Australian team, who said amazing things. I’ve known Jordo [Jordie Gavin] for a long time—it was a pretty easy choice.”

Blending Into Brave Culture

Joining a former rival locker room isn’t always seamless, but Todd fit right in. “You always think guys on other teams are losers until you play with them,” he laughs. “But the Brave boys have been great, they’re all good guys and have been really welcoming.”

On the ice, Todd is a reliable, adaptable presence. “I try to be whatever the team needs me to be. I’m known as a defensively responsible guy, but I’d like to start chipping in a bit more offensively too.”

Todd is already making a strong impression in his early outings with the Brave. In his first four games he contributed 3 points (1 goal, 2 assists), while anchoring key defensive moments. His transition from long-time rival to Brave teammate has proven to be seamless and impactful.

Brave Cave Experience

Todd isn’t new to the Brave Cave, but his first doubleheader as a Brave player was something special. “It’s a nice feeling walking out on that mat between the fans and being on the right side of it for once. It amps you up when they’re all cheering you on to play, after every period coming up and reinforcing you that you did a good job. There is always a lot of energy in the building, which it goes a long way to helping a team win games.”

Despite a tough weekend against Perth, Todd remains optimistic. “The scores didn’t reflect the play. Most of their goals came off turnovers or miscues, rather than high amounts of zone pressure. We’re still finding chemistry, but once we iron out those details, I think we’ll be really good.”

Vision for the AIS and Australian Hockey

Earlier this year, the announcement that the Canberra Brave would relocate to the Australian Institute of Sport marked a major turning point for the team, and for the sport nationwide. The move not only provides a state-of-the-art facility but symbolises the growing recognition of ice hockey in Australia.

“It’s massive for Canberra and for Australian hockey. The Brave Cave has done a good job of servicing the team to date but a facility like the AIS shows people hockey is a big deal here. Kids seeing 2000 fans in a facility like this makes hockey a real aspiration. It’s going to help grow the sport for sure.”

National Representation

Todd is no stranger to national leadership, currently finding himself in the thick of preparations for the upcoming World Championships. As captain of the national team for his second consecutive year, Todd takes the responsibility of leading the team seriously.

“Playing for Australia has been nothing short of amazing. It is the highest thing we can do and its always very special to represent your country. Ultimately my job [as captain] is to help the guys be the best version of themselves—whether that’s through communication, reinforcement, or leading by example and it’s a nice feeling to know they trust me in that role.”

He’s optimistic about what lies ahead, both for the national squad and his return to the Brave. “We’ve got the skill to match any team. Once we clean up the smaller details and sharpen our chemistry, I think we’ll be really strong down the stretch.”

Back to Back?

Todd has watched the Brave hoist the Goodall Cup more than once. Now, he’s focused on helping them do it again. “There are a lot of strong teams this year, but with our core group and the new imports, there’s definitely a foundation to go on a run.”

With grit, experience, and a team-first mindset, Cam Todd is ready to make his mark in the Brave jersey and help lead the charge to another Goodall Cup Championship.