Telford Tigers are super excited to welcome back fan favourite, Karol Jets! Age is just a number for the Slovakian forward as the 42-year old returns for his 17th season at Telford Tigers.
Jets has iced in Telford ever since 2005, with the exception of one season where he joined local rivals Solihull Barons. After calling Hobs Moat Road home for a season, Jets made a swift return to Telford for the 2007/8 season where he iced for the Tigers side for one season before joining the Telford Titans roster for six consecutive seasons, followed by the Tigers NIHL side for a further 8 successive seasons.
Last season, Jets finished on an impressive 49 points in 29 games which secured his place in the top 10 points scorers for the NIHL 2 North and South divisions for the 2022/24 season.
We caught up with Karol on his return to Telford Tigers;
You’ll be returning for your seventieth season with Telford Tigers, how does it feel to return home again?
“It’s great to be back. I really enjoy playing for Telford Tigers and I’m really looking forward to playing again for another season.”
What are your thoughts on the team’s performance the past two seasons and how do you feel heading into this season?
“We have played really well. Winning the League, Playoffs and Cup in the last two seasons was excellent. We just need to be ready for every game… If we go game by game, hopefully we will get some silverware again this season.”
Last season you bagged an impressive 49 points in 25 games. What’s your secret to success?
“I don’t really know. I just try to be in the right place and help the team in offence and defence as well.”
You had a super solid line with James Smith and Paul Davies towards the end of last season. How did you find playing with that line formation?
“I have played with James quite often in previous seasons. We have a good connection on the ice. Paul fitted really well and gave our line extra speed.”
Reflecting on your previous seasons with Telford Tigers, what are some of the standout moments or achievements that you cherish the most?
“From last season the standout moment is winning the playoffs. We played really well as a team and it was a great team effort all round.”
And finally, do you have a message for our fans ahead of the season?
“Just to say thank you for supporting us. The support has been amazing, it makes a big difference.”
Telford Tigers 2 Head Coach Scott McKenzie is delighted to welcome Karol back for a further season commenting;
“What is there to say about Karol Jets that hasn’t already been said. Jets is a natural leader and someone that is able to have a big impact in important games in key moments. A true professional that has had a big impact in our club over many years. We are very lucky to be able to retain someone of Karol’s quality not only on the ice but off the ice too. The line of Jets – Smith – Davies at the end of last season was formidable and Karol was a big part of the reason why.”
Karols’ own and loan shirt is available to order now for £75. Please see theTigers’ 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.
