Several of Telford Tigers' players will be in Elite League action tonight (Wednesday) as Coventry Blaze take on Belfast in the Charity Shield.

Tigers player-coach Tom Watkins has been in pre-season training at his former club, along with youngsters Joe Henry, Jack Watkins, Josh Bruce and Dan Scott, who will feature in the match as part of their two-way contract arrangements between the clubs.

Watkins said: "I have been really impressed with the lads, particularly Dan Scott. They all look very keen to get started and working with the Elite team will help them prepare for the EPL season ahead.

"Getting the chance to play at that level - with the speed and intensity of the Elite League - has got to help them improve. Exposure to higher level hockey can only push them on to bigger things."

Watkins himself has spent most of the summer on the ice, working at his brother Joe's goaltending clinic and several hockey camps. He will also be one of the coaches at next week's 'Hockey Skills for Life' academy, being organised by Daniel Brittle at Telford Ice Rink.

"So much time on the ice keeps you sharp during the off-season," he said. "I've been running power skating sessions and the goalie clinic meant I was shooting lots of pucks.

"I am pretty pleased with where I am personally. Doing this much hockey through the summer means I'm not worried about my own fitness and can concentrate on what I need from the team when we get together for the first time next week."

Read more: TEAMNEWS: Pre-season action for blazin' Tigers