The 20 year-old has spent much of his career in the Cardiff junior system, aside from a two-year spell at the Ontario Hockey Academy. And he believes his latest move to Shropshire is a chance to make an impact in the English Premier League.

“I would describe myself as a very offensive player, and I like to play a more European style of hockey,” he said.

“As a playmaker you have to be creative and I have got the speed and skill to do just that.”

Preece is another player to have been tracked by Watkins over the summer, and is looking forward to stepping up a level from the English National League.

He added: “I was invited to a tryout at at the start of the summer and Tom rang me the next day. He asked if I would be interested in playing for him next season.

“We spoke throughout the summer and he offered me a contract that I was really happy with. I am hoping it will be a successful year for me and the Tigers.”

For Watkins, his latest signing’s experience in training with the Elite League Cardiff Devils squad could prove to be a huge benefit.

He said: “James is making the step up from ENL South, but he has worked with the full Devils side.

“He certainly has the speed and the potential to develop into a player who can compete at the highest level.

“I saw him at the trials and he was one of the best players on the ice.”