Telford Tigers are pleased to share more signing news as the club welcomes back Stephen Crowe to the Telford Tigers 2 roster.
The 30-year-old has played the majority of his hockey at old time rivals Solihull Barons appearing on rosters including; Solihull Sabres, Solihull Knights and of course, Solihull Barons.
The towering defence-man has also iced at Coventry Blaze NIHL, where he was even given the captaincy role during the 2016/17 season. Crowe will be returning to Telford for his third season as a defenceman. Crowe also played a key part in the Laidler championship winning team in 2022, followed by the 2023 double league cup and playoff winning titles.
We caught up with Stephen ahead of his return to Telford Tigers
Welcome back Stephen! You’ll be returning to Telford Tigers for your fourth season, how does it feel to be back?
“It’s great to be back! After 3 years this place really feels like home. I have missed the boys over the summer and am really looking forward to getting back into it this season with some old and new faces.”
Can you share any memorable moments or highlights from winning the Laidler League Cup and playoffs double last season?
“For me, the highlight of last season must be winning the cup final in our home rink, in front of our amazing fans. The atmosphere in the rink on that day was phenomenal and it was a day I will remember in the years to come.”
Are you excited about any aspect of the upcoming season or any specific opponents you’re looking forward to facing?
“Over the last few seasons, ourselves and Hull have constantly battled for that top spot with some very close and challenging games. With them moving up, there will be some hungry teams looking to take their place and I have no doubt that we will find ourselves fighting against some strong opponents this year.”
There always seems to be great camaraderie within the team. How important do you think that is for the success of the team this season?
“I think that is the most important quality for a successful team. Without having a strong bond in the team, both on and off the ice, we wouldn’t be in the position we have been over the last two years. It’s something we need to maintain to be fighting for the titles again this season.”
What are your expectations for the team this year? Any predictions for how the season will unfold?
“We’ve set the bar high over the last two seasons with league and cup titles. It would be great to continue the trend and even push for that “triple” title this season.”
Are there any parts of your game that you are looking to improve on heading into the season?
“I think for me personally, I need to continue to develop all around and begin to share some of my experience with the younger and newer players that we will see in the future.”
And finally, is there anything you would like to say to our fans ahead of the season?
“The support over last season was fantastic and I’m sure I speak for every member of the team when I say we really appreciate all the support. It’s great to see people take time out of their day to come along to our game and help build a great atmosphere in the rink. I’m looking forward to seeing you all at these games!”
Tigers 2 Coach Dougie Wildman is delighted to have Stephen back on the squad commenting;
“We’re really happy that Steeeeeve has signed with us for another year with us. He plays a very methodical game and has a great eye for a pass to exit the zone. He has good size and is very solid on the puck and not to mention that he was responsible for the greatest head dive into the boards we’ve ever seen… We’re Looking forward to seeing more of the same this year minus the face plants of course.”
Stephen’s own and loan shirt is now available to order for £75 (Away). Please see the Tigers’ Online Shop for details.
In the 2023/24 season, Tigers are again offering individual player sponsorship at £500. The package will include a personalised ‘SPECIAL’ exclusive third jersey with a company name or family name patch, announcements on match nights, a small advert or logo in the match night programmes and a signed player photo. The jersey will be worn for cup games and play-off games and will not be available as a replica.
If you are interested or require more information on the individual player sponsorships, contact marketing@telfordtigers.net
Watch out for further details about new signings at Telford Tigers, visit: http://www.telfordtigers.net/news or catch up on Facebook or Twitter.
