Ambitious Telford Tigers planning for the future
Telford Tigers general manager Paul Thomason has hailed the signing of Thomas Murdy as proof of the club's plans for long-term success.
Murdy, who has already linked up with his new team-mates, was signed to offer extra competition in Telford's netminding department.
His arrival will give Tigers bosses the chance to take advantage of the club's new partnership with an as-yet unnamed side in the United States.
Thomason said: "Having three top-quality netminders on board is something that few other clubs in this country are able to do. Making sure there is cover in every position means we have the capacity to develop players for the future.
"We felt it important, because it gives us the chance to send players out to our partner club in the United States. Once there, they will live and play ice hockey, and be taught by some top-quality coaches. We are looking to send two or three players over before the end of the season.
"Not only will this benefit us, but it will also open doors for other sides in this country to send young players abroad. This sort of thing could prove crucial in developing ice hockey in the UK.
"Having three top netminders gives us the security for injury, much in the same way we have in the import department. This security shows a commitment to the fans that we will always have a full competitive roster."
Murdy is the latest in a string of new additions to the Tigers squad, following the takeover by Red Hockey last year.
And with results having improved dramatically, the former Coventry Blaze star believes Telford are already looking to the future.
He said: "The management are keen on developing players for the long-term and not just buying success.
"Of course, we have got some smart players, and you will always need them. But the club is getting guys in who will help the squad go where it wants to go in the future as well,"
Tigers coach Tom Watkins, meanwhile, believes all three netminders will form a strong working relationship.
"It makes the position even more competitive, but you have to remember that goalies always stick together. They will help each other out, talk among themselves and build confidence throughout the squad."
