Tigers defenceman Dan Scott insists he is still learning the game, despite collecting two Man of the Match awards so far this season.
The 23-year-old was handed an Assistant Captain badge last year, helping to guide Telford to the English Premier League title and British Challenge Cup.
Scott was one of the first players to join The Tigers when Red Hockey took over in 2013, and has since matured into one of the league’s most valuable defencemen.
But he believes the club’s dressing room remains a useful learning environment.
He said: “I’ve definitely become more confident about myself this season, but I see myself as more of an assistant because of my character.
“Guys like Jonathan Weaver and Jason Silverthorn have ridiculous amounts of experience, whereas I’m still learning my trade.
“It’s great to be able to learn from them, but also the other guys like Rick and Joe. Even with Danny and Sam Zajac, it is good to see what they do and learn from them.”
The former Slough star was twice named Man of the Match during the early weeks of the season, when his side were struggling to score goals.
But he refuses to shirk responsibility for that relative dry spell in front of goal.
“We’re a team, so even when you’re a forward you play defence, and vice versa,” Scott said.
“We had to keep it tight, but we lose as a team and win as a team. It’s as simple as that.”
Telford have since won their last two games, with Sunday’s encounter seeing them outshoot league leaders Milton Keynes by a remarkable 42 shots to 16.
Scott added: “It’s about getting the puck into the right scoring areas and taking those shots. We’ve been told that if we see a good opportunity, to take it.
“The guys have been scoring some dirty goals, which is good and it looks like we’re starting to click again now.
“Confidence is massive for us, especially after getting a couple of wins. Even at the weekend, when fans were clapping our shifts, it gave us a good boost.
“In away games, we’re all congratulating each other on a good shift, which also helps with confidence. That soon starts to build and you turn a corner.”
The Tigers are back in action on Sunday night, when they host Sheffield Steeldogs at Telford Ice Rink (6pm). For tickets, go to www.tigershockeyuk.com.
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