Telford Tigers are pleased to announce the return of Deakan Fielder for the 2023/24 season. Fielder will return for his third consecutive year with the Tigers and will wear the number 26 shirt. The 23 year old can play in defence or as a forward and was part of the Tigers league title winning team in 2021.
We caught up with Deakan to discuss his return:
Welcome back. How does it feel to play for your home town team again?
“It’s an honour. To put the jersey on of the team you grew up watching is always a great feeling. I can’t wait to get back playing again.”
You played in a few different positions last year. Which do you prefer, forward or defense?
“I enjoy both but I think I play a better game back in defence. I enjoy playing there and think my style of play is more suited to defending.”
How hard was it last season when the team went on that long run of games without a win?
“Frustrating. A lot of it I was on the sidelines for so it was tough to watch and not be able to help the team out, that was the worst part of it. We did extremely well to mentally get out of that and end the season on a high.”
Do you feel your game improved last season?
“I believe that in every game I was able to learn more, however my season was quite short with injuries and bans so I’ve definitely got a lot to work on in the summer, make sure my leg is strong and prepare the best I can for next season.”
You played a few years at Okanagan Hockey Academy when you were younger. How did that help shape your career?
“I think it should be something every young player experiences. To be able to train like a professional at such a young age was huge for not only my ability but my attitude towards the sport. Also getting to travel across Europe and play hockey was an experience in itself.”
You also played in America for the Fresno Monsters earlier in your career. What was that like playing abroad? How much did it help your game when you returned?
“Playing in Fresno was unforgettable. Not many young Brits can say they played in front of thousands in a stadium across the other side of the world. I think playing in such a physical league helped me change my game for the better and prepared me better for the professional game.”
What are your aims for next season?
“I want to win, simple as that. We have to take the momentum that we took into the playoffs right into the first game of the season and make sure we play our game.”
Do you have a message for the fans ahead of the season?
“As a team we can’t thank all of you enough for the continued support throughout a tough season. The atmosphere during the playoffs was the best I’ve seen and heard and we need that again in September! Have a good summer everyone, see you all soon.”
Tom Watkins, Head Coach and General Manager, said, “Deakan Fielder is a good old fashioned D-man that loves to defend first and foremost, which for an upcoming young player is a big plus for us as a club. Knowing you have that reliability is important for the team to help us build a group with all the pieces. He plays a simple effective game, plays hard, works hard, very coachable and keen to get better. He’s capable of becoming part of a shut down pairing with his size, strength and physicality he has to be a pain to play against.”
Deakan’s own and loan shirts are available to order now for £150 each (Home and 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.
