Warren Tait is unconcerned about the settling in period at Telford Tigers, ahead of his arrival in Shropshire for pre-season training.
The 35-year-old is expected to prove a key addition for the Tigers as they bid to improve on last season’s fourth-placed finish in the EPL.
The former Hull Pirates forward has spent almost 20 years in the professional game, much of that at the top level as a Great Britain regular.
He believes that experience will help him to settle in when preparations for the new campaign get under way next month.
Tait said: “Deciding to move clubs is never an easy decision to make, as there are a lot of uncertainties that come with it.
“Having played with a couple of the guys before makes the move much more comfortable, especially lads like Weaves (Jonathan Weaver).
“I’m excited to get the season underway and hope to bring something positive to the table.
“I believe Telford will be competitive and challenge for titles. I’ve always admired the hockey this club plays and jumped at the chance to be part of it.”
The former Sheffield Steelers and Cardiff Devils star, who already boasts over 100 points at EPL level, was a standout performer as captain at Hull last season.
His 28-point contribution helped the Pirates claim several high-profile scalps, including a dramatic overtime win over Manchester Phoenix.
“Like every season, my personal goals are for the team, as long as the team does well,” he said.
“If I can help towards that I’m happy and anything else is a bonus.
“I have faith in Tom (Watkins) and I know he knows what he’s doing. He’s had success in the past and I believe he has put together a great team.”
Next season’s Tigers squad will boast a wealth of top-level experience, with Weaver, Phil Hill and Jason Silverthorn all having impressed in the Elite League.
Tait added: “Experience goes a long way and the good thing is that there are guys on the team that have a lot of it.
“We can all take something from that, especially when it comes to settling into a team and getting a good start to the season.
“If we can do that, then there is no reason why this side can’t be amongst the front-runners for silverware.”
(Image permission: Steve Brodie)
