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."

Working at several summer schools has also given Watkins chance to run an eye over up-and-coming young talent.

"The hockey camps are good for picking out players who will possibly progress," says Watkins. "For instance, I am inviting Adam Taylor from the Telford under-18s to train with the Tigers. His skating ability is as good as any of the players I've signed this year, although he needs time to work on his strength.

"He is still young and right now he needs to concentrate on his under-18s and ENL game, but with more experience I am sure he will feature with the Tigers in the future."

The Tigers' pre-season challenge game against Coventry Blaze has been rescheduled. Originally planned for September 4, the match will now face off at the Skydome at 7.30pm on Wednesday September 15.

The team's first home game will be against Swindon Wildcats on Sunday September 12 at 5.30pm.