News - News 2010-2011

Ice hockey star Scott McKenzie picked up a hat trick of awards at the Telford Tigers end of season presentation night, scooping trophies for Best Forward, Coach's Player of the Year and Supporters' Player of the Year - and delighted fans at the event by announcing he would be back in Tigers colours again next season.

"My heart is in Telford now and I want to help the team climb the table," said the 24-year-old Scot. "This is the first time I have signed up for back-to-back seasons with a team, and Tom Watkins is a big part of why I wanted to stay.

"I have a lot of respect for him and what he's doing in Telford. The boys have done well this year, with what we had, but I know Tom would like to keep three good imports through the year and that would give us a better opportunity to win games and make the play-offs."

McKenzie has been hugely impressive in his first season in Shropshire, topping the team's scoring charts and winning many fans with his enthusiasm and undoubted skills.

Player-coach Tom Watkins added: "Scott brings unbelievable energy to the team and has totally kept our offence going this season. When Marek (Hornak) left us, Scott stepped up a level and the other players responded.

"He is a massive part of our offensive set-up and now we have secured him for a second year I can start to build a team around him."

McKenzie has settled well in Shropshire, saying he really likes Telford. He has a job in the town and will be helping out at various hockey camps through the summer. He also regularly goes on the ice with the youth teams, assisting in their training and development.

"Ice hockey is not just about the Telford Tigers," he said. "We must support the youngsters because that's where the Tigers of the future will come from. We are a minority sport, so we have to look after each other and keep the sport going."

McKenzie joined Tigers from Elite League Edinburgh, and the increase in ice time at this level has been welcomed by the lively winger-turned-centre.

"Last year I worked behind the other players, but it has been good to try to be a bit more of a leader here in Telford," he said. "When I came back from my shoulder injury I wanted to lead the other guys to a play-off place.

"I am a bit rambunctious, but I just want to grab the guys and get the best out of them. Hopefully Tom appreciates the effort. I guess he does since he's asked me back."

The Best Defenceman of the Year accolade went to Slovakian Tomas Janak, while 17-year-old Luke Brittle picked up the Most Improved Player award in recognition of a fine debut year in the English Premier League.

The team themselves selected assistant captain Daniel MacKriel as Players' Player of the Year - a fitting farewell for the popular local lad.

And, for the first time, the Tiger Tracks Supporters Trust Board presented a Special Recognition Award for an outstanding contribution to the Telford Tigers. The trophy was given to the Powers family - Lynn, Holly and Wendy - and Ben Booton, as a mark of appreciation for all this group of fans do to support the team, home and away.

The presentation evening took place at Wellington Cricket Club and was attended by supporters, players and their families. The event included a hog roast and karaoke to celebrate the end of the team's inaugural season under fan ownership.

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