Blais will take on the role of player and assistant coach, supporting Watkins as bench coach when not on the ice, and he plans to be involved in training the town’s junior teams.
Watkins said: “Greg is keen to help our goalies and those in the junior club. He is coming to be part of the Tigers and hockey in Telford.
“Sadly, our league is not particularly import netminder friendly as we are only allowed three non-British trained players on the ice at any time, but I still wanted Greg on board. We talked about how we would make it work and he was keen to take up the opportunity to play in the UK.
“I have a lot of respect for him and he will be a big asset to us. He will keep the other imports on their toes, knowing there is competition for ice time, and push our other goalies to be at their best. His presence should keep their levels up.
“And he will be spending time with the juniors, developing our future players, as well as helping with the Tigers’ schools visits and community activities. I was surprised to secure Greg, but he is coming to be part of the team and will be a big help to me as assistant coach.”
Blais, 31, first came to the UK in 2006 with the Isle of Wight Raiders, where he has made his home. A native of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, the 5ft 11ins goalie has played extensively in Europe over the past five years.
“I heard about the Telford trust and I think it’s a really good idea for running a team,” said Blais. “I’m excited to play on the team.
“I will be living in Telford, and going home to my family on the Isle of Wight when we have fixtures in the south. I’m really happy to be in the UK again after several years playing all over Europe. Last year I was in France, but I didn’t see much of my children. Telford is a lot closer to home, so it is a good spot for me.
“I understand the Tigers are a pretty young team so I will bring some experience. I’ve worked with some great players at the highest level in France and Holland. I hope that my experience will benefit the young netminders at the club.
“The junior programme is vital to build the team,” he added. “I have passed my level two coaching and will bring a different style and different knowledge to the junior club. I definitely agree that it all starts from the juniors, and good coaching is what is needed to develop the future senior players.
“I want to do the best I can to help the Tigers. Everybody wants to make the play-offs – that is really important to hockey players – and if Telford make it this year it will be a huge boost for the team and the community. I don’t think Telford have managed it for a while. I hope this is the year.”
The Tigers have also revealed this year’s shirt designs. In addition to the customary home and away shirts, this season a third style has been introduced. This will be worn for EPL Cup games and incorporates the retro Tiger ‘T’ logo from the 1980s.
Replica shirts are available from £42.50 for adult sizes and £35 for children’s. Full details and order forms can be found on the Tigers website – www.telfordtigers.co.uk – along with fixtures and information on joining the Telford Tigers supporters’ trust.