Daniel Croft is raring to go after re-signing with Telford Tigers, declaring: “I’ve got my passion back.”

After taking a year out of ice hockey, former captain Croft today spoke of his delight at rejoining his former team for their crack at the English Premier League.

Defenceman Croft, 31, began training with the Titans ENL side to keep his fitness levels up while working on a home renovation project.

With that now completed, Croft spoke of his eagerness to return to the ice under player-coach Tom Watkins.

He missed the end of the 2008-9 season through suspension, and opted not to play at all last year while the Tigers were mothballed awaiting new management.

“Although I talked to other EPL clubs, travelling wasn’t really feasible for me,” said Croft, who works at Donnington when he’s not on the ice.

“I took a year out and concentrated on working on my house. That project is pretty much completed now and, as the Tigers are coming back, the timing is good for me to start playing again.

Attitude

“I have kept going on the ice with the Titans ENL side. I’ve got to thank them for letting me train with them last year, to help me keep my fitness levels up and maintain the sharpness.

“But the year out has re-ignited by passion for hockey. I did miss it and I’m looking forward to getting back.

“Tom is showing a very professional attitude to the way he is putting a team together and it is going to be good.

“And my partner is happy I’m playing again. She has been watching hockey for years and enjoys going up to the rink with me, so we are both looking forward to September.”

l The Tigers have announced their first game as a supporters’ trust — a friendly fixture at Elite League Coventry Blaze.

The match will provide the newly-formed squad with a thorough workout ahead of their season, and takes place on Saturday, September 4 at 7pm at Coventry Skydome.

Tigers player-coach Watkins completed his 10-year testimonial season with the Blaze before joining the Shropshire side earlier this summer.

The team is expected to confirm further challenge games for the weekend of September 11-12, with the league campaign due to start on September 18.

By Victor Verster