GB STARS LINE UP FOR TIGERS

Team building continues at Telford Tigers with the announcement that not one, but three, further members of the GB under-18 squad will be joining colleague Jack Watkins in the EPL team this season.

Telford's own Luke Brittle is joined by defenceman Daniel Scott and goalie Declan Ryan - all of whom were in the young national squad who successfully competed in Poland earlier this year.

Player-coach Tom Watkins is delighted with each of these ambitious young signings, saying: "Daniel Scott was the captain of the team in Poland, and was looking for the opportunity to step up. Because he's going to be on a two-way contract with Coventry, he will be able to practice with them and learn lots this year. A player of his calibre will really progress from being able to play and train at a good standard. Daniel is a good mobile defenceman, smart on the puck and hungry to improve.

"Declan Ryan is reported to be the highest rated goalie at his age group, and I'm glad to give him the chance to progress. He put in a really good performance in Poland and, after he came to our try-outs, I followed him up by talking to people who know him well. I think he will really push Martin Clarkson for ice time, and keep him on his toes. Declan is a future No 1 goalie."

Watkins added: "I've coached Luke Brittle for four or five seasons now and he has always been a standout performer, both for his club and in the GB team. He is probably the most naturally gifted player I've ever coached. I think he will raise a few eyebrows in our league, and put up good numbers."

Luke is no stranger to Telford ice hockey fans, being the youngest of four Brittle brothers who have all come through the town's junior development system. Last season Luke, who has only just turned 17, was the second highest scoring player in the English National League, while competing with Telford Titans.

Thomas Telford student Luke said: "It is a massive step, moving into the EPL, and I'm going to have to work hard, but I'm looking forward to the challenge. I've never played this level before, but I'm hoping the summer goes quickly because I can't wait to get going."

Declan Ryan will commute from Whaley Bridge, Derbyshire, where he is at college.

The 17-year-old said: "I'm going to push as hard as I can to get some ice time off Martin Clarkson. I played ENL at Trafford Metros last year, which was my first senior year, but EPL will be the highest level I've played, other than internationals. It will be a good challenge. I want to keep progressing, pushing up the leagues and make a name for myself."

Daniel Scott, 18, said: "I've spent the last two years at Northwood School in Lake Placid. I really enjoyed the experience - it was two years well spent, playing lots of hockey every day. But the only way forward over there would be through college, and more school isn't really for me.

"So Telford Tigers seemed to be the right move for me. It's a big step, but with a new coach in Tom Watkins and the team coming back into the EPL, I think it's going to be a great year."

More information about Telford Tigers can be found at www.telfordtigers.co.uk