Telford Tigers team building nears completion, as player-coach Tom Watkins announces two more members of the squad – returning defenceman Ashley Stanton and new forward Josh Bruce.
Telford-based Stanton played for the ENL Titans last season, but describes his return to the Tigers as “like Christmas”.
The 26-year-old said:?“I just can’t wait to get playing again. It’s like when Christmas is coming.
“We have lots of fit young players this season, so I think we will be a fast-skating team. I think Tom’s made some very smart signings.
“I get the sense that although we will be quite a young side, Tom wants a good mature performance every week. He wants to win and so do I.”
Watkins said: “Ashley is a good local option who has played at this level before. He is very committed to Telford, loyal, and willing to do whatever it takes to play for his home team. He gives his all for his team mates, and also works incredibly hard off the ice. Physically, he keeps himself in great shape. I expect him to be solid for us.”
New in this term is winger Josh Bruce, signing from Coventry ENL.
Watkins said: “Josh trained with the Blaze Elite, and I’ve found him to be a clever little player. He makes good time and space for himself and I think now is the time for him to make a step up to EPL. He ticks the boxes in terms of attitude and work ethic. I’m sure he’s going to fit in well.”
Bruce, who has just turned 21, added: “I spent a year and a half at the Ontario Hockey Academy, which was a good experience, playing every day, then came back and played ENL the second half of last year.
“Now I want to develop as a player and I’m looking forward to the EPL challenge. I’ve always played against Telford as a junior, and I think it’s going to be fun to play in the town.”