Telford Tigers are pleased to announce the signing of defensive talent Noah Kaariainen on a two-way contract with Blackburn Hawks for the 2024/25 season. Noah, 17, spent a number of years playing for Manchester Storm Juniors before playing in Finland in the U16 and U18 Mestis League. Noah will play for Blackburn but will train regularly with the Tigers National League squad and will be available for Telford selection when Blackburn do not have a game.

Kaariainen represented Great Britain U18 at the recent World Championship Division 2 tournament, where the team finished in second place.

Noah commented on his signing for the club: “‘I am delighted to sign a two-way deal with Telford. It is a great opportunity for me to play with a successful team in the National League and develop my game. Telford have an excellent track record of working with younger players and hopefully I can be part of that.

I’m ready for the new challenges of this season and can’t wait to get started.”

Tom Watkins, head coach and general manager, commented on Kaariainen’s arrival:

“‘Noah is a good skater and a mobile puck-moving defender. I had the opportunity to see him at the World Championships and recently at a GB identification camp.

He has all the qualities to develop into an effective two-way D-man and I look forward to working with him and supporting his development, alongside Dominic Osman and the Blackburn Hawks.”

For more details on the new signings at Telford Tigers visit: http://www.telfordtigers.net/news or keep up to date via Facebook or Twitter.