Telford Tigers are pleased to announce the return of Henry Adams for the 2023/24 season. Adams will return for his second full year with the Tigers and will wear the number 36 shirt. The 21 year old defender rejoined the club midway through the 2022/23 season after starting the last campaign at rivals Sheffield Steeldogs before returning home.
We caught up with Henry to discuss his return:
You returned to Telford midway through the season last year after starting the campaign in Sheffield. What made you return?
“Initially it was for work reasons, I had just started an apprenticeship and couldn’t cope with the travelling up to Sheffield all the time so the option to play in Telford was a great opportunity for me to play for a team closer to home.”
You were part of a very successful junior team with Sam Watkins and Brodie Jesson. Did that help you settle in to the team when you returned?
“Yeah for sure, settling into the team wasn’t a problem as I knew a lot of the guys already but it was nice to be back playing with the guys I played juniors with. It helps when you join a new team that you know a few people there.”
Now you are back in Telford, was there any doubt you would return for the new season?
“It was inevitable that I was coming back to Telford at some point as it’s my home town club so there was never any doubt when Tommy asked me to re-sign. I was always going to come back.”
How hard was it last season when the team went on that long run of games without a win?
A) ” It was really hard as it’s never easy losing, no matter where you are in the league it’s hard to gain any momentum, but the way we pulled together and finished the season with some big results against the top two teams was huge.”
How did you feel your game improved last season?
“I feel I improved in a lot of ways but my decision making more so than others, it’s hard not to improve when you’re surrounded by so many experienced players.”
You will be playing with your brother- in-law (Scott McKenzie) again. Does having that personal relationship help?
“Yes, it helps a lot. I loved playing with Scott last season and I’m looking forward to playing with him again this season. He’s a great player, always gives me advice and helps me improve my game. “
What are your aims for next season?
“My aim for next season is to improve my game as a whole and help the team wherever I can. It would be great to win some silverware as well!”
Do you have a message for the fans ahead of the season?
“I hope everyone’s has had a good summer and has their season tickets ready, let’s pack the barn for the boys every weekend this season and make some noise! It really makes a difference to the team when the crowd turn up in numbers and are loud.”
Tom Watkins, Head Coach and General Manager, said, “Henry is another young local player that has the potential to keep improving which can only be a good thing for the club. He has the tools for sure to be a solid defender at this level, he’s got good size, strength and mobility with a decent overall skill set. All of those assets are redundant without a competitive nature, a solid work ethic and the ability to play with grit. I think there is much more to Henry’s game than we have seen yet and I’m pleased to have him return for another season and work with him to keep improving.”
Henry’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.