Sheffield Steelers have parted company with title-winning coach Gerad Adams as the club embark on a new "culture change".

The 36-year-old, who guided the team to the Elite League crowd last month, has been released from his contract.

Owner Tony Smith has revealed that he wants the new coach to spearhead a campaign in the Champions Hockey League, as well as all three domestic competitions.

"I want an exciting Steelers side built on speed and skill," Owners told the club's official website. "A team who 
can excite our fans for 60 minutes every night. I want the fittest,
 fastest and most competitive side here in Sheffield. I want it to be the
 most prepared side on and off the ice.

"Maybe it's a culture change I am asking for. Modern day sport requires a
 team of full time professionals. On and off the ice. If we are going to
give our players the best possible chance to win then we must back them
off the ice and behind the scenes with the best staff available."

Under Adams, the team reached Challenge Cup and playoff finals, but they lost to Cardiff Devils and Coventry Blaze respectively.